Patriots’ Two-Time Super Bowl Winner Reacts to Recent Signing
The New England Patriots are looking to bolster their linebacker position for the next season. Former Patriots linebacker Rob Ninkovich, a fan favorite and two-time Super Bowl champion, recently praised the team’s decision to extend linebacker Jahlani Tavai with a contract worth up to $21 million.
“I love his energy. He plays hard,” Ninkovich said, according to Mike Reiss of ESPN. “You need a guy like that who can do multiple things but also get everyone in the right spots. He’s been in this system long enough where he understands his role so well that he can help others. Him and Bentley [Ja’Whaun Bentley] having played together for the last three years, that’s a good thing to keep that going. I think he has a higher ceiling that could soon become an undervalued contract.”
Building a Strong Culture
With Jerod Mayo taking over as head coach, the Patriots are focused on creating a strong team culture. Ninkovich believes that rewarding players like Jahlani Tavai sets a positive example for younger players, showing them that excellent performance will be rewarded.
“It’s also an appreciation thing for a player who has performed well,” Ninkovich added. “I like what they’ve done with him and David [Andrews], which is something I’m not sure would have happened prior to this year. It tells the younger guys that if you approach it the right way, like they did, this is what the reward can be.”
Tavai’s Journey and Impact
Tavai joined the Patriots in the 2021 season after spending his first two years with the Detroit Lions. He worked his way up to becoming one of the starting linebackers, with the 2023 season being his strongest. He earned a PFF grade of 86.6 in 2023, which is considered excellent. Ja’Whaun Bentley, a Patriots member since 2018 and part of their Super Bowl-winning team, is under contract through 2025. Ninkovich sees the continued partnership of Tavai and Bentley as crucial for team chemistry.
Patriots’ Outlook for the 2024 Season
With the solid linebacker duo of Tavai and Bentley, the Patriots aim for stability in the position. The return of other key defensive players from injury could further enhance the unit’s performance. Last season, New England lost Matthew Judon and Christian Gonzalez to injuries, both of whom were performing well. Judon has a strong track record, and Gonzalez showed promise as a first-round draft pick. Other defensive players like Kyle Dugger and Jabrill Peppers have also been reliable and could play significant roles.
Offensive Prospects
On the offensive side, Jacoby Brissett is expected to start in Week 1, with the possibility of No. 3 overall pick Drake Maye seeing playing time during the season. Rhamondre Stevenson will be a key player regardless of the quarterback, while Hunter Henry and Kendrick Bourne are likely to be important pass catchers.
Though there are more questions on offense, the Patriots have the potential to field a strong defensive team in 2024.
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