Dont'a Hightower practices through rib injury

And now, some good injury news for the Patriots.

Linebacker Dont'a Hightower participated in today's practice after leaving Sunday's game against the Cowboys with a rib injury. He was hurt in the first quarter when Jamie Collins tackled Joseph Randle, and both landed hard on Hightower, who never returned to the game.

The extent of Hightower's injury is unknown, but it's a positive sign that he was able to practice through it. However, Hightower played through a torn shoulder labrum for two months last season, so he has a proven track record of playing through painful injuries.

Nate Solder, who has a torn biceps and is done for the season, was the only player missing from today's practice.

The…