Both players have incredible upside and should become key components in New England's defense immediately upon their arrival.
Jones, who was selected 21st overall, is a Syracuse product. The 6-foot-5, 265-pound defensive end showed throughout his college career an ability to rush the passer, which is a skill set the Pats have desperately needed in recent years.
Not only can Jones provide some speed off the edge, but he has also demonstrated that he's just as good against the run. And while he did suffer an injury that limited him to seven games in 2011, Jones was still an All-Big East selection after recording 39 tackles and 4.5 sacks.
Hightower, meanwhile, is another pick being lauded by football analysts. The Alabama product (picked 25th overall) was a member of two national championship teams, so he's already used to playing on the big stage, which is exactly where New England seeks to return to this season.
The 6-foot-2, 265-pound linebacker was an All-American and was named First-Team All SEC in 2011 after recording 85 tackles and four sacks. He was also a finalist for the Lombardi Award, the Chuck Bednarik Award, the Butkus Award and the Lott Trophy.
Only time will tell which player will prove to be the better selection for the Patriots, but both should have plenty of chances to make their presence felt right away. Based on their talent level, it'd be surprising if they both didn't make the most of their opportunity.
Which of the Patriots' first-round draft picks will have a bigger impact in his rookie season?
