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The Patriots had a pair of first-round draft picks in 2012, and they’re expected to pick up the fifth-year option for each guy.
Per a league source, they’ll definitely do it for linebacker Dont’a Hightower.
The 25th overall pick in the draft three years ago, Hightower will receive $7.8 million in 2016, guaranteed for injury only through the 2015 season. If he’s on the roster at the start of the next league year, the money will be fully guaranteed.
The Patriots also are likely to pick up the fifth-year option for defensive end Chandler Jones, the 21st pick in 2012.