Does Mike Zimmer's Kyle Rudolph update suggest Vikings TE could be traded?

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Kyle Rudolph and the Minnesota Vikings still haven't worked out their differences, it seems.

NFL Media's Ian Rapoport reported last Friday that Minnesota's contract extension talks with the veteran tight end had broken off, and that a potential trade could follow.

Vikings coach Mike Zimmer was asked about Rudolph on Monday and gave a diplomatic but telling answer.

"I've had conversations with Kyle and quite honestly I really love all my players," Zimmer said, via Chris Tomasson of the St. Paul Pioneer Press. "We expect Kyle to be here but sometimes business gets in the way."

It's a pretty begign quote, but the last bit -- "sometimes business gets in the way" -- certainly leaves the door open for Rudolph's trade.

The New England Patriots possibly could walk through that door; they've added Austin Seferian-Jenkins, Benjamin Watson and Matt LaCosse this offseason but would benefit from a proven talent like Rudolph to fill Rob Gronkowski's massive shoes.

Rudolph wouldn't come cheap, as he's owed roughly $7.5 million in 2019 on the final year of his deal. If the cap-strapped Vikings aren't willing to pick up his tab, though, perhaps the Patriots would come calling.

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