By John Sarianides

The Patriots need to strike while they have available cap space and get deals done with linebacker Dont’a Hightower and cornerback Malcolm Butler. 

If the objective is to win a third Super Bowl in four years, then it is imperative that Bill Belichick finds a way to get a deal done with both players. 

Belichick doesn’t necessarily need to do anything with Butler because he is going to get a substantial raise next year. Butler will go from making $600,000 in 2016 to $3.91 million in 2017. Despite that, now would be the time to do a short term extension of two to three years with Butler. Maybe do a two year, $22 million dollar extension with him. That way Butler can hit free agency again at 29-30 years old and maybe get another contract. 

As for Hightower, he clearly doesn’t have the market he thought he was going to have. Whether it be injury concerns or scheme fit, teams are staying away from Hightower. 

I think both the Patriots and Hightower are open to a reunion. How about a three year, $30 million dollar deal with $10 million guaranteed. It is the same deal Logan Ryan signed with the Titans. If you are Hightower, you would have to consider it. It is either that or sign a one year prove it deal with the Patriots at around $8-10 million dollars. 

Either way. The Patriots are in a prime position to get deals done with both Hightower and Butler. They should take advantage of their available cap space and strike while they can. 

Belichick is going all in for 2017. Re-signing Hightower and extending Butler would only fortify an already strong roster and improve the Patriots chances of going back to back.