One of the Patriots' most consistent starters will be on the sidelines for at least part of the 2016 season. Defensive end Rob Ninkovich injured his triceps in practice on Tuesday, according to ESPN's Adam Schefter.
Luckily for New England, the tendons in Ninkovich's triceps didn't tear, which means he's only expected to miss 4-6 weeks instead of the entire season. If the tendons had torn, surgery would be required and would result in as long as an eight month recovery period.
Ninkovich has started in every game the Patriots have played since he joined the team in 2009. He had 52 tackles and 6.5 sacks last season.