Predicting the next Ninkovich: Why these Pats have chance to surprise

FOXBOROUGH, Mass. -- Quick-hit thoughts and notes around the New England Patriots and NFL:

1. Surprise possibilities: One of the all-time surprise stories in Patriots training camp was authored by Rob Ninkovich in 2009. He was signed multiple days after camp began and was a long shot to make the roster while attempting to salvage his career after being released by the Saints.

Two factors contributed to Ninkovich, an outside linebacker, coming out of nowhere and ultimately becoming a high-end contributor over the next eight seasons.