MoxieTalk with Kirt Jacobs #456: Kyle Rudolph

Kyle Rudolph, born on November 9, 1989, in Cincinnati, Ohio, is a retired professional American football player who made his mark as a tight end in the National Football League (NFL). Renowned for his size, athleticism, and pass-catching ability, Rudolph enjoyed a successful career, primarily with the Minnesota Vikings, where he earned two Pro Bowl selections and became a key figure in the league.

Growing up in Cincinnati, Ohio, Rudolph attended Elder High School, where he excelled in both football and basketball. As a football player, he was a dominant tight end, celebrated for his receiving ability and physical presence on the field. His talent earned him recognition as a USA Today High School All-American, and he was widely regarded as one of the top tight end prospects in the nation.

Rudolph committed to the University of Notre Dame, where he played for the Fighting Irish from 2008 to 2010. As a freshman, he started 11 games, becoming the first Notre Dame tight end to start a season opener. Over three seasons, he established himself as a reliable receiver, finishing his collegiate career with 90 receptions for 1,032 yards and 8 touchdowns. Although his junior season was cut short by a hamstring injury, Rudolph had already solidified his reputation as one of the top tight ends entering the NFL Draft.

In 2011, Rudolph was selected by the Minnesota Vikings in the second round (43rd overall) of the NFL Draft. During his decade-long tenure with the Vikings, he became a cornerstone of their offense. Rudolph earned Pro Bowl selections in 2012 and 2017, with a standout performance in the 2012 Pro Bowl, where he was named the game’s MVP. Known for his clutch performances, he scored the game-winning touchdown in overtime during the 2019 NFC Wild Card Game against the New Orleans Saints. By the end of his time with the Vikings, Rudolph had become the franchise’s all-time leader in touchdowns by a tight end, amassing 453 receptions for 4,488 yards and 48 touchdowns.

Later in his career, Rudolph signed with the New York Giants in 2021, though injuries and limited opportunities led to a quieter season. In 2022, he joined the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, reuniting with quarterback Tom Brady during Brady’s final NFL season. In 2023, Rudolph announced his retirement from professional football, concluding a distinguished 12-year career.

Standing at 6’6” and weighing 265 pounds, Rudolph was a physically imposing presence on the field. His exceptional hands and ability to make contested catches made him a reliable target, particularly in the red zone, where he was one of the league’s most effective tight ends in scoring situations. His contributions to the Vikings helped solidify the tight end position as a cornerstone of their offensive strategy for nearly a decade.

Off the field, Rudolph is married to Jordan Nine, and the couple has children. Together, they are actively involved in charitable work, focusing on children’s health and well-being. Rudolph partnered with Children’s Minnesota, a pediatric healthcare system, and contributed to the creation of Kyle Rudolph’s End Zone, a patient and family space at the hospital.

Since retiring, Rudolph has shifted his focus to his family, philanthropy, and exploring opportunities in broadcasting and community involvement. His legacy in the NFL, particularly with the Minnesota Vikings, remains strong as a model of consistency, professionalism, and leadership.