Former Alabama Linebacker Retires From NFL
Former Alabama linebacker Dont'a Hightower has retired from the NFL.
Hightower made the announcement via an article in The Players' Tribune.
"Today, I am officially retiring from the NFL," wrote Hightower. "I know these announcements always feel bittersweet, but I can’t think of a better story than the one I wrote in New England."
The Tenn., played four seasons at the Capstone. During his Tide tenure, he recorded 234 total tackles (101 solo and 133 assisted), 21 tackles for loss, seven passes defended, five sacks, two forced fumbles, and one interception for 29 yards.
The two-time national champion was drafted as the No. 25 overall pick in the 2012 NFL by New England where he spent the entirety of his career.
"Today, I’m totally at peace knowing that I gave this franchise every ounce of sweat I had left," wrote Hightower.
In the nine seasons played, he recorded 569 total tackles (353 solo, 216 assisted), 67 quarterback hits, 43 tackles for loss, 27 sacks, 18 passes defended, five fumble recoveries, two forced fumbles, two touchdowns, one safety, and one interception.
He leaves the league as a three-time Super Bowl champion, All Pro Second-Team (2016), and a two-time Pro Bowler, as well as making the Patriots All-2010's Team and All-Dynasty Team.
"I just want to say thank you for helping me live my dream," wrote Hightower. "To you, to my beautiful wife, Morgan, to all my coaches, my teammates, my mentors, my teachers, my friends, my entire family, and to all the fans at Bama and New England.... Thank you. Just thank you. I wouldn’t rewrite a single chapter of this story."
Hightower leaves his football career with a lasting legacy in both New England and Tuscaloosa.
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