The Minnesota Vikings made the move to release Kyle Rudolph on Tuesday, parting ways with one of their longest-tenured players.
After spending 10 seasons with the Vikings, Rudolph penned an emotional message to Minnesota following his release from the team.
Thank you Minnesota!! Although my time as a Viking has come to a close, my time as a MINNESOTAN is just getting started! https://t.co/eb2aP3O4vo
— Kyle Rudolph (@KyleRudolph) March 2, 2021
In the article he wrote at The Player' Tribune to fans of the Vikings and the organization itself, Rudolph spoke about the day he was drafted by Minnesota in the second round of the 2011 NFL Draft. Despite being confused with the team taking him–who at the time didn't need a tight end–he understood how lucky he was to land in Minneapolis.
Throughout his 10 seasons with the Vikings, Rudolph was a reliable tight end in the offense. The Notre Dame product would accumulate 453 receptions for 4,488 yards and 48 touchdowns in his tenure with the team. Statistically speaking, his best season came in 2016 when he hauled in a career-best 83 passes for a career-high 840 yards and seven touchdowns.
During his time with the Vikings, Rudolph became entwined with the community in Minnesota. The veteran tight end is involved in multiple charities in the community and has a charity that helps fund a children's center in Minneapolis.
With the uncertainty surrounding the salary cap situation amid the COVID-19 pandemic, teams across the NFL are releasing players to attempt to get under the cap. And earlier this offseason, it became apparent that Rudolph could be a cap casualty with the Vikings.
Even though he doesn't play a flashy position, Kyle Rudolph has become one of the most beloved players in Vikings' history. While his time in Minnesota has come to an end, he wants fans to know that he is always going to call Minnesota home.
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