The Patriots appear like they’re still searching for Rob Gronkowski’s replacement.
New England has “talked with Minnesota” about a potential deal for Kyle Rudolph, according to Albert Breer of Sports Illustrated.
The 29-year-old tight end has reportedly been on the trade block but said recently he did not want the Vikings to move him.
“I am really excited about where this offense is headed, under the guidance of (offensive coordinator) Kevin Stefanski, with the influence of (assistant head coach) Gary Kubiak. I am extremely excited about our offensive staff,” Rudolph told the Star Tribune earlier this month. “I think we have the best offensive staff in football and they’re going to put our guys in great situations to be successful.”
Rudolph, however, said there was “no way” he’d take a pay cut.
“No, I won’t,” Rudolph said. “I am too young for that.”
Rudolph is planning to be in attendance when Minnesota starts OTAs on Tuesday, he told NFL Network.
While talks about his future simmer, Kyle Rudolph tells me he plans to practice at the #Vikings’ first OTA tomorrow. Rudolph and his wife Jordan are in New York receiving a leadership in the community award from Brian Kelly’s foundation, then taking early flight back. Pro’s pro.
— Tom Pelissero (@TomPelissero) May 20, 2019
The Patriots, meanwhile, have signed tight ends Benjamin Watson, Austin Seferian-Jenkins and Matt LaCosse this offseason after Gronkowski announced his retirement in March.
Gronkowski finished his career with 521 regular-season catches for 7,861 yards and 79 touchdowns. He's the Patriots' career leader in touchdowns and is tied for the second-most receiving scores in playoff history.
The Patriots finished 2018 with an 11-5 record and advanced to Super Bowl 53, where they topped the Rams, 13-3.