"Rob Ninkovich has been described as a hard-hat, lunch-pail type of football player.

Given his background, it shouldn't come as a surprise.

Ninkovich spent some time in construction alongside his father, Mike. The grueling work made a lasting impression on the Patriots linebacker.

"It was awesome. My dad's been doing iron working like that for 30 years now," Ninkovich said. "It just kind of gave me a really good view on how he's been working his whole life. It's tough. It's not an easy life. It taught me a good lesson to make sure I continue my education and do something not as everyday-grind and tough on your body for the rest of your life."

That toughness was put to the test early in his NFL career. A fifth-round pick of New Orleans out of Purdue in the 2006 draft, Ninkovich played for the Saints and Miami Dolphins, getting released by the Saints for a second time in July 2009.

Having seen the business side of football, Ninkovich took a step back and took an analytical approach to where he would want to continue his career. Every time he thought things out, the answer pointed to New England. Ninkovich signed with the Patriots three days after his release by the Saints."