I'm glad everyone is ready to dismiss Ninko, because the Pats feasted on a back up RT on a generally bad OL. Rob Ninkovitch has had as good a year this season, as all but one in Mike Vrabel's storied career. He is more than just a pass rusher, which he does very well, but his 5 forced fumbles, the myriad fumble recoveries, setting the edge, his versatility, WILL NOT be easily replaced.
This is a BIG loss. I can only hope he can return, but it certainly doesn't look good. If he is IR'ed, the team will move on and persevere like it always does. But that doesn't mean we should be cavalier about his loss or his contribution. In my mind only Wilfolk and McCourty are more important individuals than Ninko