New England Patriots

Pick Analysis: Alabama has developed some impressive inside linebackers in the past couple years, and Hightower is a shining example of the type of NFL-ready players in the stable that allows the Crimson Tide to be so successful at the collegiate level. Hightower has looked the part of a starting middle linebacker in the NFL for two years. If he can keep his weight steady and not lose any speed, Hightower can do many of the same things that Oakland's Rolando McClain or New England's Brandon Spikes did working as the physical inside presence of a defense. Hightower could be a better fit within a 3-4 scheme, as he has the size to shed big offensive linemen who would work free to block him in the run game.