NFL

Re-Drafting the Linebackers from the 2012 NFL Draft Using Advanced Analytics

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4. Dont'a Hightower

CarAV: 38

Dont'a Hightower is the player at which we can draw the line in the sand between above-average and elite linebackers. Why? Well, look no further than the fact that he's never had a season below an AV of 7.

At that, the production speaks for itself. Hightower has recorded 251 tackles, 17 sacks and 13 pass defended in five seasons and 67 games with the New England Patriots.

In 2016, Hightower's work finally elevated him to Pro Bowl status. At 26 years old, he recorded an AV of 14 with 31 tackles, 2.5 sacks, a forced fumble and a safety in 13 contests.