Dont'a Hightower set to make his free agency decision Published: Mar 15, 2017 at 12:53 AM The best free agent remaining is close to making his decision. Linebacker likely will decide between the and on Wednesday, with the strong likelihood being that he chooses to return to New England, according to NFL Morgan Burnett Jersey Network Insider Ian Rapoport. In addition, a source familiar with the negotiations told NFL Network's Michael Silver that the have been out of the market for Hightower after he left the team facility following a visit earlier this week. Duke Johnson Jersey NFL Network's Aditi Kinkhabwala added that Pittsburgh is likely out of the Hightower sweepstakes after intense -- and pricey -- negotiations with the player's representatives. As of 9pm last night, Steelers expected same. Felt their offer was very close, but Hightower's agent asked for more time too many times. Aditi Kinkhabwala (@AKinkhabwala) Aside from the intrigue driven by or ' name recognition or the ongoing saga, Hightower's destination will be one of the most important moves of the free agency period. A versatile linebacker, the former first-round pick is e sential to unlocking coach Bill Belichick's complex T. J. Carrie Jersey defense. He has logged some of the most important plays in recent franchise history -- especially in the . Over the past five seasons, the 27-year-old registered 17 sacks, 251 solo tackles, 13 pa s breakups and a pair of forced fumbles. With New England shifting fronts almost at will, Hightower's presence is important enough that Belichick did not simply let him fly Britton Colquitt Jersey the coop like he has other free agents. The decision could have a ripple effect throughout the AFC East given how aggre sive the were at . The are desperate for help acro s their defense and went all-in on Hightower amid an otherwise quiet offseason. Hightower to remain with the , his representation told Rapoport. This article has been reproduced in a new format and may be mi sing content or contain faulty links. Please use the Contact Us link in Joel Bitonio Jersey our site footer to report an i sue.