Third down, honestly, I’m just gonna put it out there, I’d much rather rush or blitz than cover,” the New England Patriots linebacker said. “Zone, man, or whatever. Third down is a fun down whether you’re covering or whatever you’re doing, because you can do different kind of things and come at the quarterback all kind of ways. As long as I’m able to be on the field on third down, or whatever they ask me to do, I’m willing to do it.
Patriots LB Dont’a Hightower would like the opportunity to serve as a pass rusher | masslive.com
I think between Collins, Mayo and Hightower, along with Ninkovich and Chandler, the Pats will have the ability to be extremely creative on passing downs. All are athletic and able to perform in space, but there’s also a wide array of pass rush potential.
Hightower was stuck more in Mayo’s role last season, but as he slides back toward a combination of strongside and middle linebacker, it will free him up to do more attacking. I think he’s at his best at the line of scrimmage where he can use his strength, but he also can use that to get through blocks and after the QB.
Should be fun to watch this defense.
