Mike Maccagnan and the New York Jets have gone on an all-out assault on acquiring the services of linebacker Dont’a Hightower.
The New York Jets have been in the headlines this offseason due to the players they have released and/or lost to other squads. Guys such as Nick Mangold, Darrelle Revis, Ryan Clady and Brandon Marshall lead the way.
They haven’t been in the headlines for big moves made during free agency, but are looking to change that, immediately. Mike Maccagnan and the Jets are trying to steal Dont’a Hightower away from the defending champs, the New England Patriots.
Hightower missed four games last year with a knee injury but still managed to tally 65 combined tackles on the season. He made his first Pro-Bowl selection last year. Considering his success, it was a bit surprising to see the Patriots allow him to hit the open market.
Hightower has narrowed his teams down to the Jets, Patriots and the Pittsburgh Steelers, according to ESPN and NFL insider Adam Schefter.
With the New York Jets clearly in a rebuild mode, it will be tough to steer him away from two teams that are always in the Super Bowl hunt.
The Patriots have been extremely active this offseason in trading for tight end Dwayne Allen and wide receiver Brandin Cooks. No question, they are looking to gear up for another Super Bowl victory. Hightower has already won two rings with them and it seems like he could have a chance to win more.
So, how can the Jets steal Hightower away from the Patriots and Steelers?
“Show him the money!” It’s really that simple.
The Jets are reportedly offering him a deal that will pay him 12 million dollars a year. Only Luke Kuechly of the Carolina Panthers would make more at the linebacker position.
The New York Jets appear to be going all in for a guy that they desperately need. They are trying to get younger at every position. Hightower is only 27-years-old and appears to be entering the prime of his career. He can be a great fit behind the Jets great defensive line.
If it’s money Hightower is looking for the Jets have a great shot at signing a big name player. But if it’s more rings that he covets, well, then I guess the Jets celebrating his birthday with him was a waste of time because he will be moving on.