Patriots LB Dont’a Hightower Believed To Have “Minor” MCL Sprain, Could Play In Week 2

Ian Rapoport of NFL Media is reporting that Patriots LB Dont’a Hightower is believed to have suffered a minor MCL sprain during Thursday’s loss to the Chiefs.

According to Rapoport, it’s possible that Hightower could play in the team’s Week 2 matchup, given that they will have an extended break.

This would be great news for Hightower and the Patriots, as it appeared as though he may have a very serious knee injury after he was rolled up on from behind.

Hightower, 27, is a former first-round pick of the Patriots back in 2012. He played out his rookie contract before the Patriots picked up his fifth-year option last year and tested the open market as an unrestricted free agent for the first time in his career this offseason.

Ultimately, Hightower returned to the Patriots on a four-year, $35.5 million contract that included $19 million guaranteed.

In 2016, Hightower appeared in 13 games for the Patriots and recorded 65 tackles, 2.5 sacks, a forced fumble, two pass defenses and a safety. Pro Football Focus has him rated as the No. 13 linebacker out of 87 qualifying players.