New York Jets NFL Trade Rumors: Dont'a Hightower Leaves Jets Visit Without a Deal
Dont'a Hightower is, without a doubt, one of the top unrestricted free agent in the market this year. Everyone knows what he can do. The New England Patriots want to re-sign him, but they will have to get in line because he's busy visiting one of their division rivals.
Hightower met the New York Jets on Sunday and the team went all out to try to convince the linebacker to sign with them. They ever tried to woo him with cupcakes. That's right. Cupcakes.
Hightower turned 27 on Sunday, so the Jets decided to show some love and helped him celebrate. "They sent his mother Jets merchandise, they brought him out to dinner last night and had cupcakes given to him on his birthday. They had 'Happy Birthday Dont'a Hightower' on all the screens inside the Jets training facility," ESPN's Adam Schefter said. "The Jets' interest is real and legitimate. I think if they come [close] financially, he's going to consider going to play for the New York Jets," he added.
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Unfortunately, he left the Jets without signing a contract. The linebacker's visit concluded on Monday, and now he's off to Pittsburgh to meet the Steelers. According to CBS Sports' Jason LaCanfora, the Jets are one of the favorites to land Hightower.
However, NFL.com's Ian Rapoport said the Jets and the Tennessee Titans were convinced that Hightower was going to re-sign with the Patriots. Well, the Patriots definitely want him back. In five seasons with the team, Hightower has helped them win two Super Bowls and he's an integral part of the team. He has become one of the best linebackers in the league during his time with the Patriots.
Hightower could still end up signing with the Jets, so don't rule them out just yet. But for now, his free agent tour will continue.
