Odds of Kyle Rudolph joining Patriots take hit with latest contract development

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Kyle Rudolph is about to enter the final year of his contract with the Vikings, and while there's been speculation that Minnesota could trade the veteran tight end, it sounds like progress is being made to keep him with the franchise long-term.

Rudolph revealed Wednesday he has been offered an extension from the Vikings. 

The New England Patriots need to upgrade their talent and depth at tight end after the recent retirement of Rob Gronkowski, and Rudolph certainly would be a strong replacement for the future Hall of Famer. The Patriots and Vikings reportedly have had discussions on Rudolph, too. 

Rudolph has spent his entire eight-year NFL career with the Vikings. The 29-year-old tallied 64 receptions for 634 yards and four touchdowns last season. He's also been quite durable, having not missed a single game in the last four seasons. The Vikings, however, selected Alabama tight end Irv Smith Jr. in the second round of the 2019 NFL Draft, so they do have a replacement if they decide to part ways with Rudolph.

If the Patriots don't acquire Rudolph or any other tight ends between now and training camp, they'll enter camp with Ben Watson, Matt LaCosse, Austin Seferian-Jenkins, Ryan Izzo, Stephen Anderson, Andrew Beck and Jakob Johnson at the position.

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