supafly

I think that we can assume that as his tenure increases, so will his responsibilities.

To this point, he is still learning and trying to progress, and has certainly looked "green" at times doing so.

Next year we'll probably see more Hightower in terms of responsibilities and production.

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Patiently waiting to defend the next "bubble" player in this summer's training camp.....

VrabelJr

You can't just look at players heights and weights and plug them into various positions. We have no idea how Hightower does with his hand in the dirt. In a three point stance or a four point stance. How his body reacts to leverage from a taller LT versus a more stout Guard, etc. etc.

supafly

As you point out, there are lots of variables involved that Belichick and Patricia/Pepper will take into account. There could be other potential options for this proposed question that will work better at the moment, or it's possible that they feel Hightower is the best choice for his role(s) that are currently being played.

I would guess that Belichick is getting him reps and helping to understand some of the responsibilities and nuances of the defense first, before throwing too much at him.

Like I said, I would expect Hightower to continue his current role with maybe a flash or two of additional responsibilities as we head into the playoffs, but nothing too major. Next year should be a bit of a different story with an additional year under the training and supervision of this staff.

__________________
Patiently waiting to defend the next "bubble" player in this summer's training camp.....

PatsFan2

I don't mind seeing Hightower anywhere *Except* in coverage he looks horrible there.

Kenneth Sims

I've wanted to see Hightower at DT in the sub packages even before Cunningham was suspended. He's bigger and more experienced playing in the middle of the line making him less of a liability against running plays, you'd think. He's a pretty good athlete for his size and would be a lot for most OG to handle one-on-one. Can't see why they wouldn't, at least, try it now that Cunningham is out.