The SideLionReport staff has written many articles so far this offseason highlighting the many needs the Detroit Lions must address heading into the 2017 season – either through the draft or through free agency. While there are several positions we can look into, today’s article focuses on the linebacker spot.
The linebacking group for this team was depleted in 2016. Former Second-Team All-Pro selection, DeAndre Levy, couldn’t stay healthy. Tahir Whitehead held his own at inside linebacker, but is more of a natural fit on the outside. Josh Bynes, the other starting linebacker, had a hard time staying on the field in 2016 as well (he played in only 9 games).
There was very little depth behind those three underwhelming players, and with two of them often unavailable, the linebacker spot was a big weakness for the Lions. Detroit needs to add at least one starter there. Enter middle linebacker, Dont’a Hightower.
Three things bode well for Detroit regarding Hightower. First, and foremost, he and Bob Quinn (Detroit’s general manager) have a prior relationship from their days in New England together. Secondly, the franchise has plenty of cap room heading into free agency. And last, but not least, the New England Patriots are notorious for letting top players test the market.
Hightower will likely be a hot commodity looking for a big contract, and Detroit must make it a priority to attract his services. Quinn was actually the director of pro scouting for the Patriots when Hightower was drafted in 2012. So Quinn knows his game well.
Pro Football Focus ranks Hightower as the best available linebacker this offseason, while NFL.com has him at No. 4 on its list of Top 101 Available Players. Hightower had 65 tackles, 2.5 sacks and one fumble forced in 13 games in 2016. Through his first five seasons, he has recorded 372 total tackles, 17 sacks, 12 pass deflections and two forced fumbles. Oh, and he’s also a Pro Bowler, Second-Team All-Pro selection and two-time Super Bowl champion.
Hightower can be an anchor in the middle, and help Detroit’s defense move up in the ranks. If you are curious, The Lions ranked 18th in total defense, 19th against the pass and 18th against the run – all in the lower half of the league. I truly think Hightower’s presence as a defensive field general will help the Lions improve in all three of those facets on defense.
The Lions don’t generally go after big-name free agents. It is a risk to put all of their eggs in one basket because it is expensive and it is unknown how well it will work out in the long term. And again, there are so many positions the team needs to fill. However, with Hightower I think those concerns should be pushed aside.
If Levy can return healthy, Whitehead moves back to the outside and Hightower mans the middle in 2017, I think the linebacker woes will be a thing of the past. The Lions may also look to add more depth at the position through the draft.
Should Detroit pay top dollar for Hightower? Comment your opinion below.
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