Ninkovich announces retirement

Multiple reports now indicate Rob Ninkovich will announce his retirement from the Patriots Sunday afternoon in Foxborough.

The 33-year-old Ninkovich, who signed with New England as a free agent in the summer of 2009, built a resume of dependability and versatility in his eight seasons with the Patriots. He played a variety of positions — defensive end, inside and outside linebacker — and compiled one of the longest consecutive games played streaks at the defensive end spot in recent league history.

The Purdue product finishes his career with 46 sacks and five interceptions, as well as a pair of Super Bowl rings.