While they splashed him with birthday wishes, free agent linebacker Dont’a Hightower decides to spurn the New York Jets for the Pats.
Apparently, the New York Jets’ cupcakes did not convince Dont’a Hightower to sign with the struggling football team.Dont'a Hightower is returning to the New England Patriots, sources tell ESPN. New England's off-season rolls on.
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) March 15, 2017
According to Adam Schefter, Hightower will sign a $43.5M deal ($19M guaranteed) over four seasons. If true, it appears Hightower took a pay cut to resign with the reigning Super Bowl Champions.
The Jets reportedly offered Hightower $12M to leave Tom Brady and company. Not only did the Jets offer him more money, they offered Hightower cupcakes and gave his mother Jets gear to persuade Hightower to become a member of Gang Green. Hightower seems to value championships more than sugary snacks.
With Hightower passing on the Jets they will likely keep longtime LB David Harris, rather than cutting him for cap space. Second-year linebacker Darron Lee is also expected to play a large role on the defensive side of the ball for New York.