New England Patriots linebacker Dont’a Hightower is choosing not to participate in the 2020 season, league sources told ESPN’s Adam Schefter on Tuesday.
Running back Brandon Bolden also plans to opt out of the season, a source told ESPN. Starting offensive tackle Marcus Cannon, fullback Danny Vitale and reserve offensive lineman Najee Toran earlier decided to opt for the Patriots.
Hightower, 30, became a first-time parent on July 16 and told his classmates Devin and Jason McCourty on his “Double Coverage” podcast this week: “I have no words to describe it. Asking what to expect and expect, was that. and something else “.
Nicknamed “Mr. February” by head coach Bill Belichick because of his ability to deliver great plays in Super Bowls, Hightower was poised to enter his ninth season in the NFL, all with the Patriots.
Three-time Super Bowl champion and team captain, the 6-foot-3-inch, 260-pound Hightower traditionally calls the defensive signals and would be as confident as ever this season after the exits of free agency linebackers Kyle Van Noy and Jamie Collins.
This was the last year of Hightower’s contract, and he was slated to earn a base salary of $ 8 million. The contract will now affect the 2021 season.
The Hightower Foundation annually raises funds for the American Diabetes Association, which has significant meaning to him when his mother, L’Tanya, was diagnosed with type 2 diabetes. Hightower keeps a photo of his mother in his locker.
Bolden, 30, was ready to enter his ninth season in the NFL and eighth in New England. He is a central player for special teams who provides valuable depth on offense.
Bolden was due to earn $ 1.3 million in base salary in 2020, which was the last year of his contract. That will affect 2021.
WEEI sports radio in Boston first reported Bolden’s decision.
.
