The right rod for the ned rig is a lighter power and slower action than the usual finesse rod in order to cast the light jigs well and to be sort of "forgiving" while fighting fish on the light wire hooks. It should be as sensitive as possible, of course. This last requirement leads to micro guides to make the tip as light as possible. I think I've found an ideal blank, but there are many more suitable ones of other makes, I'm sure.
The Rainshadow Imortal IMMWS72ML-TC my favorite. It is called a "walleye rod" by Rainshadow. It weighs 1.7 oz, is rated for 1/8-3/8 lures, but loads fine with the 1/10 ned jigs. It also handles the new heavier, larger neds well. Its action is called "fast." I measured it at 65 degrees (CCS action angle), which is more moderate than most blanks called "fast." Bottom line, it appears perfect for this technique. I found the power to be 190 grams on my rig.
An Amtak Aero seat, up-locking, and carbon fiber ramps and butt knob were used.
I used the Microwave guides, but the Fuji KLH setup would work just as well, in my opinion, and would give an even lighter tip.
In my opinion, a blank with these characteristics is perfect for the ned, especially in open water where horsing a bass out of weeds is not an issue. Of course horsing isn't going to work well with any blank with the light wire jigs of the original ned.