Injury update: Patriots LB Dont’a Hightower had surgery today, full recovery expected

Earlier today, news broke that New England Patriots linebacker Dont'a Hightower did not just suffer a shoulder injury during Sunday's game against the Atlanta Falcons but a pec injury as well. Not even an hour later, NFL Network's Ian Rapoport reported that the injury will force the defensive captain to miss the rest of the season.

In his latest news about Hightower, Rapoport reported that the 27-year old underwent surgery today:

#Patriots LB Dont’a Hightower had surgery today to repair his torn pec, source said. It went well. Should have a full recovery for 2018.

While the Patriots had hoped to the last minute that Hightower might be able to return, it seems like the season is officially over for their star linebacker. Expect New England to place him on injured reserve soon, opening up a spot on the active roster. With the news that wide receiver Danny Amendola is dealing with a hyperextended knee, it would not be a surprise to see it used on a wide receiver for the time being.