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Kyle Rudolph (Notre Dame) - 2011 NFL Draft Pick #43 by MIN


What The Experts Thought Before The Draft

Pre-Draft Analysis for Kyle Rudolph - 2011 NFL Draft

Kyle Rudolph, a standout tight end from the University of Notre Dame, was one of the top prospects heading into the 2011 NFL Draft. Here’s an overview of his strengths, weaknesses, and overall projection:

Strengths:

  • Size and Athleticism: Rudolph stands at 6'6" and weighs around 259 pounds, making him an imposing target for quarterbacks. His size allows him to shield defenders effectively.
  • Receiving Skills: Known for his reliable hands, Rudolph has the ability to catch the ball in traffic and demonstrates strong route-running skills. He has the agility to create separation from defenders.
  • Blocking Ability: While primarily recognized as a receiving tight end, Rudolph has shown the capability to block effectively in the run game, adding value to his skill set.
  • Football IQ: Demonstrates good understanding of the game, which enables him to read defenses and adjust routes accordingly.

Weaknesses:

  • Injury Concerns: Rudolph had suffered a significant injury during his college career (torn hamstring), which raised concerns about his durability moving forward.
  • Limited Experience: Despite being highly talented, he had limited playing time in college due to injuries, which could impact his immediate contribution in the NFL.
  • Speed: While he possesses good athleticism, he lacks elite speed, which may limit his ability to stretch the field vertically.

Overall Projection:

Kyle Rudolph was projected to be a first or second-round pick in the 2011 NFL Draft. His combination of size, receiving ability, and blocking skills made him an attractive option for teams looking to bolster their tight end position. However, concerns over his injury history meant that some teams may have hesitated to select him in the first round.

Ultimately, Rudolph was selected in the second round, 43rd By the Minnesota Vikings, where he would go on to have a successful NFL career.

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