Dont’a Hightower’s fourth-quarter strip sack of Matt Ryan is often cited as the play that turned the tide in the Patriots’ favor in Super Bowl LI.

However, another big Hightower hit might have been just as important in that 34-28 comeback victory over the Falcons.

It came on the first play of the second half, with Atlanta holding a 21-3 lead.

Hightower, as instinctive a player as there is in the NFL, was lined up on the right edge. The linebacker sidestepped his block at the snap and met running back Devonta Freeman head-on 3 yards deep in the backfield. Hightower popped up and wagged his finger toward the crowd as if to say, “This one isn’t over.’’

The play sent a message that the Patriots weren’t done and helped set the tone for one of the most improbable comebacks in NFL history.

It’s the type of clutch play that has defined Hightower’s five seasons in New England and a big reason why his signing was a top priority for the Patriots.

Hightower is the captain, the quarterback of the defense, and the guiding force for a linebacking corps that changed on the fly last season. Along with Rob Ninkovich, the 6-foot-3-inch, 265-pound Hightower helped guide his mates through the midseason departures of Jamie Collins (trade) and valuable depth player and special teams standout Jonathan Freeny (shoulder surgery), plus the arrival of Kyle Van Noy. In addition, he was a rock for newcomers Shea McClellin and Elandon Roberts.

Hightower’s new $43.5 million contract gives the player, the franchise, and the fan base what they all wanted: Four more years.

The linebacker rotation was a work in progress early on in 2016 but the unit jelled during the stretch run and into the playoffs as roles were defined and players got comfortable.

Ninkovich (6-2, 260) moved from defensive end to more of a middle linebacker role as part of the adjustments, and was a steady and stabilizing performer.

McClellin, who has the versatility to play on the line or off the ball, grew comfortable with his role and the Patriots’ scheme, and he figures to be even more effective next season.

Smart and athletic, the 6-3, 250-pound McClellin will forever be remembered as the NFL’s last successful leaper. The NFL recently banned the practice of players vaulting over the line of scrimmage in an attempt to block field goals and extra points.

Van Noy settled in quickly after arriving from Detroit and proved to be versatile and smart. The 6-3, 243-pounder possesses excellent athleticism and can rush the passer, defend the run, and also drop in coverage.

Roberts was a heat-seeking monster against the run. The rookie sixth-rounder really came on after Collins was shipped to Cleveland. Roberts is 5-11 and 235 pounds but plays bigger. He’s quick off the snap, finds the ball in a flash, and delivers thunderous hits.

Freeny will be back, and practice squadder Trevor Bates was re-signed, but this is an area where the Patriots will need to build more depth — particularly if Ninkovich moves back to defensive end — because of the natural wear and tear of the position.

Linebacker

Primary 2016 starters: Dont’a Hightower, Shea McClellin.

Expected 2017 starters: Hightower, McClellin, Rob Ninkovich.

53-man depth chart: Hightower, McClellin, Ninkovich, Kyle Van Noy, Elandon Roberts, Jonathan Freeny.

Possible draft option: Alex Anzalone, Florida (fourth round). An exceptionally smart and instinctive player, this 6-foot-3-inch, 240-pounder has underrated athleticism and unquestioned toughness. Anzalone has the versatility (he played the Mike, Will, and Sam spots in Gainesville), leadership, and big conference experience the Patriots love. Durability is a major concern, as he has missed time with shoulder woes and a broken arm.

Jim McBride can be reached at james.mcbride@globe.com.