Dont'a Hightower will remain with Patriots

Patriots linebacker Dont'a Hightower

Dont'a Hightower will not be leaving New England after all.

The veteran linebacker has agreed a four-year contract to remain with the Patriots after briefly testing the free-agent market, his agents at SportsTrust Advisors? announced Wednesday.

According to NFL Media's Ian Rapoport, Hightower's deal is worth $43.5million with $19million guaranteed. Clearly New England are eager to reward the All-Pro linebacker for his crucial role in the team's Super Bowl run and eventual win as he recorded a sack and a forced fumble in the big game.

Hightower had drawn interest from a number of teams, including the New York Jets and Pittsburgh Steelers, but was unable to be swayed — even by the cupcakes, dinner and merchandise the former used to express their interest.

Back home to New England. Congrats, @zeus30hightower! #boomtower pic.twitter.com/GVqzqKkeq7

— SportsTrust Advisors (@_SportsTrust) March 15, 2017