Rob Ninkovich dubbed the Jet Killer by Belichick
In a celebratory postgame locker room, Bill Belichick referred to defensive end/linebacker Rob Ninkovich as the "Jet Killer" because he once again came up big against the Jets. Ninkovich had two interceptions in a game against the Jets last season, and one thing that stood out from watching him Sunday -- when he came up big on the final play of overtime -- is how his versatility is being tapped. Sometimes he's at linebacker. Other times it's defensive end. Sometimes he's dropping into coverage. Other times, he's rushing. Ninkovich is truly a Swiss Army knife for the defense.
That's high praise from Bill Belichick, who hates the Jets.
Ninkovich's pick six of Sanchez in the game in New York last season sealed that game, and he sealed this one too. Who would've thought one of the Patriots best defenders would end up being Ninkovich. Take a look at his career from pro football reference.
This is a guy who has a fifth round draft pick by New Orleans, he had a nice rookie preseason with the Saints (three sacks) but then got hurt during the season and was put on injured reserve. He then got injured in the following training camp and was waived. After a short stint with the Dolphins where he barely played he went back to the Saints as a long snapper, and was even cut from that.
Then after 1 season with the Pats, he becomes a starter.
Here's Ninkovich's latest death blow to the Jets, the fumble from Sunday.
