The Patriots have not one but two big free agents on the defensive side of the ball and now one has agreed to return. Linebacker Dont'a Hightower has agreed to a four-year contract worth $43.5 million, which includes $19 million in guaranteed money. The deal highlights what has already been a busy free agency period for the Patriots as New England signed ex-Bills' cornerback Stephon Gilmore and traded for former Saints' receiver Brandin Cooks. Restricted free agent Malcolm Butler is another defensive starter who is meeting with teams like the Saints. If he were to leave, the Saints would be required to compensate New England in the form of a draft pick(s).