Report: Patriots' Rob Ninkovich suffered torn triceps; timetable unknown
The New England Patriots appeared to dodge a bullet with one injury but might be unlucky with another.
Early on Tuesday, there were reports that wide receiver Julian Edelman had potentially re-injured his surgically repaired foot, but it doesn’t appear to be serious. However, there’s a good chance they’ll be without defensive end-linebacker Rob Ninkovich for an extended period of time.
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ESPN’s Mike Reiss reports that Ninkovich suffered a torn triceps.
DE Rob Ninkovich tore his triceps. It is unknown how long he will be sidelined. If he returns, how much loss of strength affects him is key.
— Mike Reiss (@MikeReiss) August 9, 2016
If it’s fully torn, Ninkovich could be out for the season. If it’s a partial tear, he might return. Either way, the Patriots can use the injured reserve-designated to return option for one of their more underrated defenders. He suffered the injury in Tuesday’s joint practice with the New Orleans Saints.
The Patriots have defensive line depth to withstand the blow somewhat, highlighted by 2015 draft picks Geneo Grissom and Trey Flowers, along with free-agent addition Chris Long. Still, Ninkovich is one of the smartest and most versatile defenders the Patriots have.
Ninkovich joined the Patriots in 2009 and missed one game that season. Since then, he has played in 102 consecutive games — the third-longest streak in the NFL among defensive ends. Last season he was credited with 52 tackles, 6.5 sacks, seven passes defended and one forced fumble. He has had at least 6.5 sacks each of the past five seasons in New England after starting his career with the Saints and also playing with the Miami Dolphins.
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Eric Edholm is a writer for Shutdown Corner on Yahoo Sports. Have a tip? Email him at [email protected] or follow him on Twitter!
