'08 OH TE Kyle Rudolph (3/26/07 Notre Dame LOI)

[Svoboda]

Tight End
Elder High School (http://www.elderhs.org/) (Cincinnati, OH)

Ht: 6-foot-7
Wt: 220 lbs
Forty: 4.8 secs

Links of Interest: None

[Svoboda]

Reserved for photos.

[brownkj002]

ND leads for his services.

[tedwick]

ND leads for his services.
maybe... then again, maybe not. got a source?

[J3308]

it's an article on his page on scout (premium article, but indicates ND is the leader)...

[scooper]

maybe... then again, maybe not. got a source?

It's not really a well kept secret. No direct source, but Elder folks seem to expect him to pick ND.

[iloveirish_12]

How good is he? How many stars will he be?

[scooper]

One of the top 5 TE's in the country. Probably a 4 star. He plays against GREAT competition.

[stonebreakerwasgod]

Cincinnati is a good german Catholic city. We got to keep the pipeline acoming!

[iloveirish_12]

Cincinnati is a good german Catholic city. We got to keep the pipeline acoming!

I think Cincinnati will play a huge part of ND football staying good. They need to get back to getting the best players out of cincinnati.

[Svoboda]

Kyle was spotted this weekend at his church sporting an ND hoodie. Man, the potential of getting this kid if HUGE. 6'7" with a nice high jump. Can you imagine the red zone possibilities?

[irishuniverse]

it's been a long time since ND did any recruiting down here. Rudolph is a great athlete and will probably be a 4 star TE.
Elder is strong and has been for a while. he is dominant on the BB court also.

[iloveirish_12]

Kyle was spotted this weekend at his church sporting an ND hoodie. Man, the potential of getting this kid if HUGE. 6'7" with a nice high jump. Can you imagine the red zone possibilities?

Yeah ND could be great in the red zone if he came to ND, along with Duval Kamara.

[notredomer23]

Is this guy gonna be better then fasano or carlson by time hes a junior or senior

[tedwick]

Is this guy gonna be better then fasano or carlson by time hes a junior or seniorFasano was a 4 star guy, 9th or 12th best TE in his class depending on who you ask. Carlson was 3 star guy, 16 or 19 in his class.

Rudolph is probably top 2 or 3 in this class, probably a 5 star guy. Supposedly a polished reciever in the konrad reuland mold. I'd say both of those guys have the potential to be better than fasano or carlson, at least as receiving threats. (i really don't think we'll see a block/pass TE better than Fasano for a while)

[BGIF]

Freebie Scout article at http://notredame.scout.com/2/626762.html

[grantphilly]

theres a story on rivals about a decesion coming sooner than later and him visiting one of his favorites this weekend, any one know where he's visiting?

[patrick316]

http://news.enquirer.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20070326/SPT0301/303260048

he is having a press conf wednesday at his school to announce his commitment to ND

[brownkj002]

This is great news for two reasons. He's a stud and ND's starting to establish themselves again in the GCL.

[stonebreakerwasgod]

Go cincy! Great to see us as a pipeline once more!

[southernavenger]

rivals has him listed as a solid commit. as of today. Looks good. big but a little slow. will defintely help in blocking off tackle to seal the edge.

[southernavenger]

i also heard he is looking to play bball. I can only think of one other football/basketball player........(julius Peppers). sick. Bball helps alot with agility and quickness and stamina.

[BigIrish]

big but a little slow.

meh...i don't see 4.7 speed on a 6'7" tight end as being 'slow.' coming out of high school, rivals had carlson clocked at a 4.6 and fasano a 4.8

without a doubt, this kid will be expected to provide some solid blocking, but he's getting the early offers and attention he's getting because he's a play maker and a pass catcher - a red zone threat.

[southernavenger]

meh...i don't see 4.7 speed on a 6'7" tight end as being 'slow.' coming out of high school, rivals had carlson clocked at a 4.6 and fasano a 4.8

without a doubt, this kid will be expected to provide some solid blocking, but he's getting the early offers and attention he's getting because he's a play maker and a pass catcher - a red zone threat.

all sites i have seen have him a 4.7-5.0. still he is a junior and will have time to improve. if he puts on much more weight before coming to ND he will probably not be that fast. I know he is a pass catcher and a red zone threat. i am looking forward to seeing him play. It looks to me like CW is going for one big TE and one hybrid TE each year. Looks like this guy fits the mold of a yeatman and not a reuland or carlson. Exciting to say the least.:)

[untitledproject]

Update....

[toolest]

Did I miss something or is Lemming's list incorrect? It shows Rudolf uncommitted but accurately portrays later commits.

http://www.cstv.com/recruiting/recruiting2008.html

I apologize if this was covered elsewhere.

[IrishCalves]

Just look at the caption next to it - Kyle reminds Lemming of John Carrolson :p.

I gotta say the list isn't very... good... Kyle Long @ #11, even though he already picked FSU for baseball? That was months ago... this list isn't very informed - feel safe in Kyle Rudolph's commitment.

[irishunclebill]

Did I miss something or is Lemming's list incorrect? It shows Rudolf uncommitted but accurately portrays later commits.

http://www.cstv.com/recruiting/recruiting2008.html

I apologize if this was covered elsewhere.

As I said before Lemming is the first 4 letters of your name T O O L est.

[IrishKnight1023]

http://news.enquirer.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20070820/SPT030101/7082

Great article and info on Kyle....

On getting his offer from Weis....

The Rudolph clan was ushered to Weis' office. This was shortly before a game, remember. Weis smiled and handed Kyle Rudolph a big, gold envelope.

"It was his offer letter," Jamie Rudolph said. "I was like, 'This is not happening.' Charlie Weis said he didn't want to be rude in front of the other recruits, but he wanted to meet with Kyle individually and tell him how much Notre Dame wanted him."

[daytonirish]

Love the part of the article when they talk about all the young kids wearing Kyle's #9 and wanting to take a picture with him. Not a bad way to get these kids interested in N.D. at an early age.

[NDGirlzRock]

Love the part of the article when they talk about all the young kids wearing Kyle's #9 and wanting to take a picture with him. Not a bad way to get these kids interested in N.D. at an early age.

Hey that means that he can be #9 at ND...I know not the conventional TE #, but it's possible.

[GhostSpirit]

Ethan Johnson is also #9. Personally, I think it would look more badassed if Ethan kept the number.

[Pete]

Ethan Johnson is also #9. Personally, I think it would look more badassed if Ethan kept the number.


As long as they both aren't on the field at the same time, they both can have the number.

[IrishKnight1023]

I think it's retarded how you can have two of the same number on a team. Like Cushing and Booty. How is that not a rule?

[Pete]

I think it's retarded how you can have two of the same number on a team. Like Cushing and Booty. How is that not a rule?

Because with walk-ons you can have over a 100 players on the roster.

[IrishKnight1023]

Kyles team defeated Lakota West 21-14 tonight. The team they beat tonight was supposedly a good one. He had 1 pass and dropped another in heavy traffic. Was doubled all night by the OLB and S. He is Elders punter so with about a minute left in the game his team lined up to punt the ball, but LW return team was only just running their guys on so Elder snapped it early and instead of kicking it Kyle ran down the sideline for a 45 yard run to set up the winning touchdown. Not bad ey?

[stonebreakerwasgod]

LW isn't a bad team at all. I can't wait for the Catholic league to start up.

[NDGirlzRock]

Damn the kids the punter too! You don't see a 6'7" punter everyday!

[NDgrandson]

http://recruiting.scout.com/2/674884.html

Big win, big game, big pub for Rudolph. Outside of of Michigan losing to ASU, this is the biggest upset.

"After another Chisholm TD-run, Elder again found themselves down but this time, with only four minutes left in the game. Facing a 4th and 15, QB John Groene heaved a pass down the seam into quadruple coverage, but the 6’7 Rudolph leapt over the would-be defenders and came down with the game saving play. Three plays later, it was Gramke finding the endzone for a third time to tie the game at 34."

[stew654]

Here is a pic of that quadruple coverage catch, look fwd to many more of those:

http://news.enquirer.com/apps/pbcs.dll/gallery?Site=AB&Date=20070902&Category=SPT030101&ArtNo=709020801&Ref=PH&Params=Itemnr=4

[IrishKnight1023]

Highlights of Elders win over Independence. Scroll down and it's the first game under McCarthys team on the main screen.

http://friday.rivals.com/friday.asp

[irishunclebill]

Elder did have a bit of a letdown after the big win over Independence in the Herbie as they squeaked by (21-16) a team that they have not lost to in 21 years.

[napoleonbuck]

http://news.enquirer.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20070915/VIDEO02/70915002/1062/SPT

I believe you see Rudolph make two plays in this video of Elder's upset loss at the hands of Lasalle.

[irishunclebill]

Elder's promising beginning of this season continues to falter as they dropped to 3-3 last night with an 18-0 loss at the hands of the #1 ranked High School team in the country St. Xavier/Cincinnati.

[notredomer23]

Kyle caught 2 passes for 111 yards
can you say anthony fasano/john carlson of last year

[Fishin'_Irish]

Kyle caught 2 passes for 111 yards
can you say anthony fasano/john carlson of last year

Not a bad average.

[irishunclebill]

Kyle Rudolph is the #1 TE in the Final Rivals position rankings. Rudolph was the wire to wire leader on Rivals for that position.

Of course the ESPN guys have him as like the #622 TE,:rolleyes: so I guess this does not mean much.

[notredomer23]

He seemed to really enjoy himself at the game with Dayne and others.

[IrishKnight1023]

http://www.blueandgold.com/content/?aid=5611


Who would have guessed a year ago with fall camp approaching that a freshman would get serious mention for playing time in Notre Dame’s tight end rotation heading into 2008?

It’s a position the Irish have recruited well since Charlie Weis’ arrival, and 5th-year senior John Carlson’s departure was the only certainty at this time last year.

However, sophomore Konrad Reuland wasn’t a good fit in South Bend and transferred during the 2007 season. His classmate Will Yeatman was involved in an alcohol-related incident and was suspended from Notre Dame’s lacrosse and football teams last semester. His absence left then-freshman Mike Ragone as the only scholarship tight end participating in spring camp.

Thus, a door was opened for Kyle Rudolph and Joseph Fauria - the two promising freshmen Weis and his staff signed in February.

“These two tight ends are two tight ends that are going to press to get involved in the mix pretty quickly in their career because they're both big and athletic,” Weis said at his signing day press conference.

It’s extremely difficult to project who will see the earliest playing time between Rudolph and Fauria, because they’re so similar in size and prep production. Rudolph is 6-foot-7, 235 pounds and Fauria stands 6-7 and weighs 250. As seniors, both caught 30-some passes, had more than 500 receiving yards and at least eight touchdowns.

But because Rudolph was offered first by the Irish coaches and was more highly touted by the media, it suggests the Cincinnati native will be the more likely of the two to see quick time.

It’s a reach to assume that either freshman will be ready to handle the complexities of opposing defensive schemes to see early playing time in blocking situations. So Rudolph’s polish as a receiver might allow him some opportunities on the field in red zone or short yardage situations. Over his final two prep seasons at Elder High School, Rudolph hauled in 69 catches for 1073 yards and 18 touchdowns.

“Kyle is all everything,” Weis continued. “This is a guy who's a dynamic type of athlete who's a First Team All-American by USA Today.”

Here’s a player that should remind a lot of Irish fans of Carlson. In addition to their obvious physical similarities, both players have extensive prep basketball backgrounds. In fact, Elder athletics director, Dave Dabbelt, told BlueandGold.com that Rudolph would have been a legitimate basketball prospect had he chosen the hardwood instead of the gridiron. He’s the second leading scorer in Elder’s history and holds the record for career rebounds. It’s that athleticism that should earn Rudolph plenty of early attention.

“One of the underrated parts of his game is his leaping ability,” Dabbelt said. “When you’re already 6-foot-7 and then you add a great vertical leap to it, it can be scary. There are some balls his QB can throw where he is the only person on the field who can possibly get to them. He is special.”

What’s A Good Season?

Despite the recent drama surrounding the tight end position for the Fighting Irish, Yeatman and Ragone should be able to lock down most of the playing time. Yeatman provides reliability as a blocker and Ragone should be the first receiving option at tight end.

But a player like Rudolph should intrigue Weis – a former tight ends coach – as a third option at the position, and he could be called on in short-yardage, goal line, or jump ball situations, if nothing else, as a decoy. A touchdown or two in 2008 isn’t out of the realm of possibility.

Realistically, a season that mirrors Mike Ragone’s freshman season is more reasonable. Rudolph should be able to get his feet wet with some special teams appearances early on and then ease his way into some offensive reps by season’s end. He still has some growing to do after keeping his weight down most of his high school career for the sake of maintaining a basketball physique.

“His weight is down because of hoops,” Weis acknowledged in February. “But as soon as hoops is over we'll take care of that.”

Rudolph should be able to take care of the rest.

[rontdtarchala]

we are getting loaded with talent at every position imho

[IrishGrizz]

Definately good things ahead.

[JDubbs]

http://www.blueandgold.com/content/?aid=5611

Honestly guys, this is an under reported piece....can you tell from the February comments attributed to Weis.

Here is legitimately what I have read and heard as per other sites. He is already up in the 250 range! The article lists him still at 235. As of April or May...so he may be up even more....he was a reported 248 lbs. He said at the time that he was at a weight that ND said was close to his max weight they EVER want him at in his career at ND.

I don't want to get too carried away here....but he is like so many of the recruits in the FR class....when utilized in right spots taking advantage of their one or two extraordinary God given tools, they can make a big impact. Kid is an outstanding receiver and athlete, a very difficult size and speed match up. He doesn't need to be an exceptional blocker yet (if used correctly) but he will be one....and maybe sooner as opposed to later with a kid that has shown a work ethic on par with his talent.

BTW, my opinion here. You will see immediate contributions from many in this class. DL will be part of an endless rotation of fresh guys (Newman, Cwynar, E. Johnson) Filer will be on the field somewhere defense, if not special teams. Fleming will be utilized as a situational pass rusher early. Don't look now but in the shuffle Blanton is our 4th CB and will play. Don't be surprised if McCarthy (obviously if healthy enough once he has put the pads on) is pushing for time at Safety come USC and/or the bowl game.

But the best part is the offense. We will see at least 2 guys (Floyd and Rudolph) who will have an impact. They play the right positions to contribute right away. The best collegiate WR in football last year was Michael Crabtree, a FR. And you know how I feel about Rudolph's chances.


God listen to me!!!!! I'm doing it again. I have officially come to accept at this very moment that the essence of being an ND fan is that whenever Loss 1 occurs this year....a tear will fall in our beer. Why? Because every year....we have the same dream. Sometimes the dream has more caveats and yeah buts with chances measured in decimals of percentages......But you know....you believe.....1988 was a year early, maybe there is a chance......weak schedule, maybe........@USC? Really.....I don't dare do I?


F%^& it I do! I believe this team can be exceptional!

[KamaraPolice]

Great post, but a couple things Dubby (or Dubbster, or just Dubbs).

1) Crabtree was a redshirt freshman. Still I think Floyd can go off this year though.
2) When have we had a Tightend contribute early? I'm worried that Ragone can step up this year as a sophomore (second year player). I doubt Rudolph will be anything more than a situational player this year. A jump ball, a red zone target, just as the article says. Maybe he grabs 5-6 touchdowns. But I dont see him having 100 yard receiving games. It's tough out there, TE is far more physical than receiver.
a) John Carlson didn't step up til his 4th year
b) Anothy Fasano didnt step up til his 3rd year
c) Marcus Freeman (remember him?) didn't step up til I think his 4th year as well
3) The less true freshman that play vs USC, the better our chances will be.

We'll see, but I think the articles' conservative estimate of what Rudolph can do this is year is an accurate, conservative estimate.

Also, read the McNeil article. The author does a good job of pointing out how many players come to campus with so much expectation, and then are forgotten when the new guy with as much expectation arrives. I think Filer will play a lot this season, but I also think Toryan Smith will break out this year.

[benneboy]

I agree that some freshman will have a significant impact, but I think the number will be closer to 3-5 not 5-10. If I had to guess, I would say Floyd, Rudolph, Johnson, and one of Filer or Flemming. Any more than that and it would be a sign of bad things to come. First, I really like Blanton and Slaughter, but either Gary Gray or McNeil will be the Nickle back and I would have to think we would play three safeties in any Dime packages. I like McCarthy a lot also but their is way too many people ahead of him to see significant PT this year. He would have to pass up Sergio Brown, Gordon, Harrison Smith, and his brother to take that second safety spot. He could be a really good Special Teams player though with his athleticism.

[JDubbs]

Great post, but a couple things Dubby (or Dubbster, or just Dubbs).

1) Crabtree was a redshirt freshman. Still I think Floyd can go off this year though.
2) When have we had a Tightend contribute early? I'm worried that Ragone can step up this year as a sophomore (second year player). I doubt Rudolph will be anything more than a situational player this year. A jump ball, a red zone target, just as the article says. Maybe he grabs 5-6 touchdowns. But I dont see him having 100 yard receiving games. It's tough out there, TE is far more physical than receiver.
a) John Carlson didn't step up til his 4th year
b) Anothy Fasano didnt step up til his 3rd year
c) Marcus Freeman (remember him?) didn't step up til I think his 4th year as well
3) The less true freshman that play vs USC, the better our chances will be.

We'll see, but I think the articles' conservative estimate of what Rudolph can do this is year is an accurate, conservative estimate.

Also, read the McNeil article. The author does a good job of pointing out how many players come to campus with so much expectation, and then are forgotten when the new guy with as much expectation arrives. I think Filer will play a lot this season, but I also think Toryan Smith will break out this year.

Good points all, but to be fair, the players you sited for comparison were not spoken about the same way as Rudolph was this year. He has been spoken about like a Shockey, Winslow type when it comes to his receiving ability. I concede that he will not be the best of blockers in the beginning, but that's not where his skills lie. If his skills are his skills...I am saying for a guy like Floyd and a guy like Rudolph we are talking about skills that can be honed....but more often than not are either there...or they aren't. For both player's I think they are there and can present legitimate match up issues for the 4th or fifth best pass defender on every team on our schedule. I think Michael Floyd should be better than the 4th best CB, or OLb, or Safety that will be matched up with him in the slot. I think that Rudolph out of the slot invites a kid who loves to rebound and was the school's 2nd all time scorer to post up on the same personnel. You either have ball skills, or you don't, you are an exceptional leaper, or your not. Will both players have more polish even as early as next spring...of course.....but they should help now.

They believe it (the FR) as well and I think that is half of the equation as well.

[KamaraPolice]

touche.

I hope Floyd, Rudolph, Filer and maybe EJ or Cwynar step up enormous this season. Maybe Hafis or Brandon as well. We need a couple guys to step up big on the d-line.

[rontdtarchala]

it's important on dline just to give the guys a break

[stonebreakerwasgod]

Rudolph steps up as Notre Dame tight end


http://www.chicagotribune.com/sports/college/chi-081022-notre-dame-football-rudolph,0,3265682.story

[NDgrandson]

Rudolph's 4th down catch vs Hawaii reminded me of the big catches he made in his last couple games in HS. That was the first jump ball opportunity we've seen from him. Many more to come.

http://goldhelmet.com/picture.php?albumid=5&pictureid=378

[NDGirlzRock]

Rudy is a man among boys at a very young age. Dude look at the athletism! He is gonna be big time....BIG TIME! I predict the best TE every to go through ND!

[Griff Cannon]

http://www.chicagotribune.com/sports/college/chi-09-notre-dame-kyle-rudolph-dec09,0,1075341.story

The sophomore tight end will have surgery Dec. 18 to repair what was between a Grade 3 and Grade 4 separation of his shoulder, Rudolph's father told the Tribune on Tuesday, likely sidelining him for three months but ensuring he will be near 100 percent for the 2010 season.

[stonebreakerwasgod]

SOUTH BEND, Ind. -- As much as the grueling tempo of workouts and predawn conditioning sessions could constitute cruel and unusual punishment, Kyle Rudolph wanted in. But once doctors operated on the Notre Dame tight end's separated shoulder, frustration became a notable side effect for six weeks.

"Especially because the second three weeks were back here and guys were working out and I was just standing here in my sling," Rudolph said as Notre Dame began spring practice last weekend. "For me personally, that was tough to watch all the guys get after it. But then once I got out of my sling, I gradually got back into things."

Should the recovery continue as planned, Rudolph won't miss much from here on out.

At 6-foot-6 and 265 pounds and able to move like a receiver, Rudolph already has been a mismatch for the Irish to exploit, and that should not change in Brian Kelly's spread offense. Nor should Rudolph feel uncomfortable, having spent plenty of time split wide both at Cincinnati Elder High School and at times when Charlie Weis was calling the shots in his first two seasons.

"The tight end doesn't come off the field," Kelly said last week.

Rudolph, though slowed by the surgery, should be able to accommodate that workload.

"Camp Kelly started, we had a couple of those workouts and I got to do everything for that," he said. "All of our little practices in the morning, I did all of that, so I didn't miss too much."

Notre Dame has no offensive player returning who has started more games than Rudolph. And he recorded 33 catches for 364 yards and three touchdowns in 2009. But it would seem that, with the emphasis on the passing game, Rudolph could shoulder an even greater burden in his junior season.

"Everything's good and I'm ready to go," Rudolph said. "I'm very happy with how my shoulder's held up through all my individual drills and stuff that we've done, leading up to this point."

http://www.chicagobreakingsports.com/2010/03/notre-dames-rudolph-ready-to-shoulder-load.html

[step30044]

I would hope in Coach Kelly's offense that we utilize Kyle and his unique set of skills more than the offense under Coach Weis did

[SpanishElite]

I would help in Coach Kelly's offense that we utilize Kyle and his unique set of skills more than the offense under Coach Weis did

No doubt. Rudolph has Tony Gonzales type receiving skills. Tall, lean has a very solid set of hands. Can split out wide at WR, or flex TE he can motion and do all sorts of different things. Everyone always talks about having 3 weapons for a very potent offense. You know Floyd will get double teamed, if you double Rudolph you open up for your 2nd WR (3rd option) thats why Evans, Kamara, Walker or Goodman need to step up and beat some people in 1v1 coverage.

[irishmarine]

One on one coverage is bearable with a decent wr and a good qb. Crist will have to be the one who really steps up and plays well i think

[NDIRISH44]

crist's ability to tuck and run will keep LB's in check, bye bye rudolph over the top

[NDgrandson]

http://www.und.com/allaccess/?media=185395

He's a beast.

Oh yeah... it's a video.

[NDgrandson]

http://rivals.yahoo.com/video/college-football/Rudolph-working-hard-everyday-696015;_ylt=AhUK2ETvKrJiMop30LF0xzDLa79_

This is the media, not named Jack Nolan, interview. It's different enought to watch both.

[NDgrandson]

http://www.blueandgold.com/content/?aid=9578


August 16, 2010
No Need To Rushby TODD D. BURLAGE
Assistant Editor

Maybe the most troubling moment of fall camp to date came on the very first day of practice when star junior tight end Kyle Rudolph pulled up lame on a pass route and grabbed the back of his leg.

The hamstring injury is being called nothing more than a tweak by the Irish coaching staff, and Rudolph is back and participating in some drills, but concerns persist for the man who may end up being the most valuable offensive player this season.

“We really haven’t set a date as of right now,” Rudolph said when asked about returning to full speed. “It’s just something each day I’m doing as much as I can, just getting better each day, just making progress and not having any setbacks. Purdue is still three weeks away. I’m getting better every day and I feel better every day.”

Tight ends coach Mike Denbrock said that even though Rudolph isn’t practicing full speed, he is studying and becoming more comfortable in the offense every day.

“He’s with me all the time learning, and growing in his knowledge of the offense,” Denbrock said. “I don’t think we have any question marks in terms of his physical ability.”

The worries about Rudolph’s health are very real. Like so many of the Irish offensive players in 2009, Rudolph had what was bound to be a terrific season cut short by injury.

Even while playing in only essentially nine games, Rudolph finished the season with 33 catches, 364 yards and three touchdowns, which was similar production to his stellar freshman season when he recorded 29 catches for 340 yards and two touchdowns in 13 games.

The start of the 2009 season was terrific for Rudolph. Through the first five games, he averaged 4.2 catches and 53.4 yards, while scoring three touchdowns. But after his hot start, Rudolph’s averages slipped to three catches and 24 yards per game in the four games between USC and Navy.

But even with some slippage and an injury that cut his season short, Rudolph still had a solid season, though he didn’t reach the All-American goal that looked likely through September. Even so, his two-year production is still among the best all-time at Notre Dame.

Since 1972, when freshman eligibility was permitted, Rudolph’s 62 career receptions are the third most ever by an Irish player after his sophomore season. Teammate Michael Floyd has 92, and former receiver Golden Tate had 64 entering 2009.

“I’m just another piece to the puzzle,” Rudolph said. “Everything has to work for the team to succeed. I got to do my job. The receivers have to do their job, and so on right down the line.”

The preseason watch lists are due out today for the John Mackey Award, given to the best tight end in the country, and Rudolph will be on that list. He’s already a member of several pre-season All-American teams and on the Lombardi Award watch list along with sophomore linebacker Manti Te’o and defensive end Ethan Johnson.

“All those awards come with winning football games,” Rudolph said. “You look at the guys that are winning those awards, they’re guys that are playing in BCS games and national championships. That’s my focus going into the season, just doing anything I can to help my team and if I win awards, that would be great. It would be a great honor to win those. I would love that, but I am more focused on winning football games.”

[Purebred Irishman]

http://irish.nbcsports.com/


Kyle Rudolph of Notre Dame was named John Mackey Tight End of the Week by the Nassau County Sports Commission. The junior recorded eight receptions for 164 yards and a 95 yard touchdown catch - a career best in receptions and yardage. His career long 95 yard touchdown reception put Notre Dame ahead 24-21 with 4:28 remaining in the 4th quarter before Michigan retook the lead with 30 seconds remaining resulting in a heartbreaking 28-24 loss for Notre Dame. This is the second time that Rudolph has been name Mackey Tight end of the Week - the other honor coming in week 3 last season. Honorable mentions considered for this week's Mackey Tight End of the Week include Ladarius Green of Louisiana and Rob Housler of Florida Atlantic.

[JMR8]

I understand he's hurt, but he needs to be more consistant! Too many dropped balls as of late.

[Pete]

Might get held out next week

http://www.chicagobreakingsports.com/2010/10/notre-dame-notes-te-rudolph-to-be-shelved.html

[NDIRISH44]

nagging injuries can drain one's focus

[NDgrandson]

In the und.com interview KR divulges that he had been fighting the hamstring injury since July. So I was breaking some news from the Gug when I saw him working them on an off day.

This surgery is a monumental one. If it does not go right, it could cost him a huge career. Done right, and he is a potential lottery pick with a very promising NFL career. His family and the staff have to choose wisely with the surgeons and the PTs.

This injury could mean the difference between a W and a L vs the likes of Utah and USC. We'll see. I look forward to seeing Ragone and Eifert, but when it's 3rd down and we really need to convert, I'll be missing KR.

KR has some HUGE hamstrings. I hope they know how to deal with the likes of them in the OR.

[IrishFan123]

Interesting tweet from him on Eric Hansen...Ends with Kyle saying can't wait to be back out there with my guys.

[jimshoe]

going pro... put it in the bank

[IrishCrasher]

going pro... put it in the bank

he's staying, no use leaving to be a second day draft pick, in a hold out year.

[NotreDameNate]

going pro... put it in the bank

I don't think there is any way, personally. I don't even think he will be healthy enough to perform in the combine.

[NDgrandson]

ChiTribHamilton Brian Hamilton
#NotreDame TE Kyle Rudolph doing not-so-light running on track next to practice field. Wow. That's quick healing.
8 hours ago Favorite Retweet Reply

Uh oh. Slow down there big fella.

[adamsfamily03]

Dear Kyle "super-stud tight end" Rudolph -

Please enjoy your continuing recovery and subsequent first round pick in the upcoming NFL draft. You are rated the top tight end in the draft and deserve to bring home first round money this year. We appreciate your productive time at Notre Dame and will always think of you fondly as you enjoy your future success on Sundays. It was hard to listen to the announcers drool over you each week. They all agreed that you are the best tight end coming available in this draft and we know in our hearts you will not suit it up for our beloved football team ever again. Bittersweet for sure.....but BEST WISHES!!!

Love,
The IRISH Faithful

[CULion17]

Rivals reporting he is going pro.

[KamaraPolice]

Dear Kyle "super-stud tight end" Rudolph -

Please enjoy your continuing recovery and subsequent first round pick in the upcoming NFL draft. You are rated the top tight end in the draft and deserve to bring home first round money this year. We appreciate your productive time at Notre Dame and will always think of you fondly as you enjoy your future success on Sundays. It was hard to listen to the announcers drool over you each week. They all agreed that you are the best tight end coming available in this draft and we know in our hearts you will not suit it up for our beloved football team ever again. Bittersweet for sure.....but BEST WISHES!!!

Love,
The IRISH Faithful

do you know the family? where's/why the riff? is it over the handling of his injury?

[CULion17]

Haven't seen anywhere else but rivals, but I don't doubt it. Good luck Rudy! I'd advise my sons to do the same.

[sreepointer]

Good luck to him. I can't blame him for going pro, if you are rated #1 at your position, you leave. This is much easier to deal with now than it would have been if he wouldn't have been hurt. Because of his injury, we know that Eifert is pretty good too, so this stings just a little bit less. Good luck Rudy, I will be rooting for you, as long as you arent playing for Packers.

[IrishFan123]

Didn't see this coming thought he'd stay

[athanjohn]

I knew He was gone I think he took Weis' firing very hard he loved Charlie. In fact I remember him coming back early from an injury last year to play Stanford because of the fact the Weis might have been fired he came to Notre Dame to play for Charlie.

[lowayne]

On the one hand, his injury plagued years make him a risk to fall in this draft, on the other coming back to ND and getting hurt again/not fully coming back from current injuries would drop him further.

God Bless Kyle. Wish we had seen you dominate all year this season.

[Irish Joe]

He'll have a solid NFL career

[cincybball50]

Sorry if already posted. This article is a part of Irish Illustrated. I can't say I blame the kid. A tremendous athlete and a great kid.

"Kyle Rudolph won't catch another pass at Notre Dame.

The tight end will declare for the NFL draft and has already selected an agent, multiple sources told Irish Illustrated. Rudolph requested his draft status from the NFL Collegiate Advisory Committee after the regular season, as did Michael Floyd. Most believe Rudolph rates as the top tight end available."

[wernd50]

God speed

[irish_bobcat]

Good for him. You can't turn down the possibility of being the first tight end drafted. It was fun watching him play at Notre Dame. I look forward to see him play on Sunday.

[mlcspinner]

I look forward to seeing him in the NFL

[Irish Joe]

Time for the "next man in" theory to shine. I feel better having seen Eifert play well.

[NotreDameNate]

Damnit for selfish reasons! Awesome for him though, and I can only hope he goes to the Bears now. Kyle, you will be missed, but not forgotten any time soon.

On another note, this make's me think Floyd will be leaving as well. Not sure why, but it just does.

[NotreDameNate]

Time for the "next man in" theory to shine. I feel better having seen Eifert play well.

Me too. Hopefully we can get another two that are just as good as Eifert so we have some quality depth behind Eifert also.

[irish_bobcat]

I have a feeling that Floyd is staying. He can improve his stock a lot by coming back next season.

[NotreDameNate]

Didn't see this coming thought he'd stay

I was in the same boat. But I didn't realize he was rated #1 at his position until recently too. Like it was mentioned earlier, if you are rated #1, you leave. He will be on my fantasy football team at some point, can't wait! : )

[cincybball50]

I'm 50/50 on Floyd. After having a good bowl game, maybe he feels like his stock is high right now. Minus the one handed catch attempt, he seems ready to go. Plus with his injuries, maybe he feels now is the time for the money. However, out of selfishness, I want Michael on the ND sidelines for as long as he is allowed. That guy is a matchup nightmare.

[Revolver]

Time for the "next man in" theory to shine. I feel better having seen Eifert play well.

Ha ha, that's what I was going to say. Eifert looks great!

[NotreDameNate]

I'm 50/50 on Floyd. After having a good bowl game, maybe he feels like his stock is high right now. Minus the one handed catch attempt, he seems ready to go. Plus with his injuries, maybe he feels now is the time for the money. However, out of selfishness, I want Michael on the ND sidelines for as long as he is allowed. That guy is a matchup nightmare.

Not if he is on the sidelines. :tard: Just messin' around Cincy, I know what you are saying.

[IrishCrasher]

he's staying, no use leaving to be a second day draft pick, in a hold out year.

I stand Corrected as usual. I really would have loved to see Rudolph Play his last year at ND. God Bless him and Good Luck in the NFL. Hopefully you end up with the Eagles.

[JMR8]

wish he would stay, but i'll move on to Eifert, (maybe Ragone), Welch, and Koyack.

good luck to him!!

[NDgrandson]

Damnit for selfish reasons! Awesome for him though, and I can only hope he goes to the Bears now. Kyle, you will be missed, but not forgotten any time soon.

On another note, this make's me think Floyd will be leaving as well. Not sure why, but it just does.

Agreed. I say he goes to the Ravens late first round to replace an aging Heap (wishful).

I have to say this is a bold decision. I don't think there is any chance he or anyone else knows where he will be with his recovery. If he were to put in a full healthy season he might go higher, rated as #1 or not. What if he falls in workouts? Might he not hire an agent?

Floyd vs Rudolph - That bumps Floyd down another spot on the draft board most likely. There are several elite WRs coming out vs not many TEs.

I hope Ragone comes back. It's a freakin shame to see guys like Fleener and Reuland ranked #15 and Ragone getting no love. Ragone was the #2 TE out of HS behind Aaron Hernandez who is tearing it up in the NFL. Injuries and off the field stuff have not been good for him but I hope he can break out and get to the NFL level. Also, outside of Eifert, we are unproven with TEs and I see Welch as more of a Yeatman TE than a Fasano/Carlson/Rudolph/Eifert TE. Koyack has a higher upside to me but needs a couple years. Not sure Golic will ever get significant PT.

[DublinIrish]

Agreed. I say he goes to the Ravens late first round to replace an aging Heap (wishful).

I have to say this is a bold decision. I don't think there is any chance he or anyone else knows where he will be with his recovery. If he were to put in a full healthy season he might go higher, rated as #1 or not. What if he falls in workouts? Might he not hire an agent?

Floyd vs Rudolph - That bumps Floyd down another spot on the draft board most likely. There are several elite WRs coming out vs not many TEs.

I hope Ragone comes back. It's a freakin shame to see guys like Fleener and Reuland ranked #15 and Ragone getting no love. Ragone was the #2 TE out of HS behind Aaron Hernandez who is tearing it up in the NFL. Injuries and off the field stuff have not been good for him but I hope he can break out and get to the NFL level. Also, outside of Eifert, we are unproven with TEs and I see Welch as more of a Yeatman TE than a Fasano/Carlson/Rudolph/Eifert TE. Koyack has a higher upside to me but needs a couple years. Not sure Golic will ever get significant PT.
Ravens took 2 TE's in the draft last year so i dont see it ;)

[Purebred Irishman]

Good luck to Kyle he is going to be very good in the nfl. Will he be fit enough to take part in the combine ?

[MoeMontana]

Given that the assessments came in late last week. and Kelly said he was going to talk to both Rudy and Floyd early this week, I think we have learned the outcome of those discussions/analyses.

I'm actually of the opinion that Mike Floyd is going to stay now because his draft status was never as good as Kyle Rudolphs to begin with (MF is probably 4 or 5th WR, to KR's being #1 TE) and why aren't we hearing that he too is going to the NFL since they both have recieved their NFL assessments and have both spoken to coach Kelly and only one (so far) is being rumored to be leaving early and declaring for the draft. Last year Clausen and Tate declared together.

I'm inclined, at least for now, to think that Floyd is coming back next year.

[NDisNCin2010]

i forget...what round/slot did carlson get drafted couple years ago to seattle?

[NDIRISH44]

wish he would stay, but i'll move on to Eifert, (maybe Ragone), Welch, and Koyack.

good luck to him!!

ragone? pls let that ship sail into the sunset.

[Purebred Irishman]

i forget...what round/slot did carlson get drafted couple years ago to seattle?

I'm pretty sure he went in the 2nd round but i could be wrong with that

[NDFan4Life]

Bummer.

http://www.wndu.com/hometop/headlines/112918024.html

[goldandblue]

That sucks..... Floyd will be gone to I say. It's the ones that battle injuries in their career that look to get that payday before a career ending injury happens. Both Floyd and Rudolph have battled injuries.....

[morrdave9]

Don't be so sure on Floyd...

[irishunclebill]

Agreed. I say he goes to the Ravens late first round to replace an aging Heap (wishful).

I have to say this is a bold decision. I don't think there is any chance he or anyone else knows where he will be with his recovery. If he were to put in a full healthy season he might go higher, rated as #1 or not. What if he falls in workouts? Might he not hire an agent?

Floyd vs Rudolph - That bumps Floyd down another spot on the draft board most likely. There are several elite WRs coming out vs not many TEs.

I hope Ragone comes back. It's a freakin shame to see guys like Fleener and Reuland ranked #15 and Ragone getting no love. Ragone was the #2 TE out of HS behind Aaron Hernandez who is tearing it up in the NFL. Injuries and off the field stuff have not been good for him but I hope he can break out and get to the NFL level. Also, outside of Eifert, we are unproven with TEs and I see Welch as more of a Yeatman TE than a Fasano/Carlson/Rudolph/Eifert TE. Koyack has a higher upside to me but needs a couple years. Not sure Golic will ever get significant PT.

I'm curious as to how you have this opinion on a guy who didn't play a down this year. Welch comes from the same school as Rudy meaning the same type system in HS, is almost identical in size to Rudy, and actually caught 13 more passes as a HS Senior than Rudy did, 43 vs. 30. Welch does not have the downfield speed that Rudy has, but he is definitely a pass catching TE prospect. The only reason he did not play this year was that Tyler Eifert proved to be such a capable replacement for Rudy.

[wicket]

Damn we are deep at TE. Even with rudy declaring we still have thee TEs that i trust completely with the way koyack is tearing it up in san antonio. Dont know exactly how little golic is doing but he should be able to contribute as well if need be.

Ill miss rudy as i believe he was thee most talented te in cfb this year but losing mikey would more as he brings more stuff to the table that we will struggle to replace.

[DublinIrish]

Koyack is in the UA game

[DublinIrish]

Cant help thinking the Golic's should have just went to uConn. Not sure if they will ever contribute much to ND other than as 5th year seniors.

[Synoptico]

Cant help thinking the Golic's should have just went to uConn. Not sure if they will ever contribute much to ND other than as 5th year seniors.

Just looked it up and Mike Golic played in all but the Purdue game and Jake played the Purdue, BC and WMU game...

I like them and think they probably contribute more thank their stats show.

[wicket]

Koyack is in the UA game

You are correct my sir, go into my stable and take my finest horse, his name is winchester.

[morrdave9]

http://www.ndsmcobserver.com/viewpoint/goodbye-notre-dame-it-has-been-great-1.1880926

To my fellow Irish students:

I can't thank all of you enough. You have been there for me and the rest of my teammates through the highs and lows and through it all, you have showed your loyalty and unwavering support. Every Saturday, you showed up and gave your all to make Notre Dame Stadium the best place in the country for college football, and for that, I'll be forever grateful.

I am so thankful to have had the opportunity to play football for the University of Notre Dame. I loved being both a student and an athlete here, and I'll cherish each minute that I wore the blue and gold. This school and this city hold a special place in my heart and I intend to remain an active part of this community that has given me so much.

I am very excited about whatever the future holds for me, but know that regardless of where my next stop may be, I will always be Irish!

Finally, I'd like to give special recognition to my little brother, Louis Nix III, who will be wearing the No. 9 and continuing the tradition!

All the best.

Kyle Rudolph

[a1ND]

http://www.ndsmcobserver.com/viewpoint/goodbye-notre-dame-it-has-been-great-1.1880926

Wow...that is awful classy and I hope Nix tears stuff up next year

[wernd50]

one of my all time favs. Wish he was staying, but I understand.

[NDGirlzRock]

This guy has the potential to be as good if not better than Tony Gonzalez!!! Even with the injury, I still see him going low first round!!!

[mcbri014]

He is not in Mel Kiper's first mock draft. That can definitely change after he proves he is healthy. There were no TE's in the 1st round and I highly doubt that actually happens in the real draft. Locker wasn't even in the 1st round....that kinda sucks after being projected to go #1 last year.

[a1ND]

He is not in Mel Kiper's first mock draft. That can definitely change after he proves he is healthy. There were no TE's in the 1st round and I highly doubt that actually happens in the real draft. Locker wasn't even in the 1st round....that kinda sucks after being projected to go #1 last year.

to be fair...being projected to go #1 w/o going through the combine or any of the pre-draft stuff doesn't mean all that much and i fully believe if he would have come out last year that he would not have been selected in the first round either

[NotreDameNate]

He is not in Mel Kiper's first mock draft. That can definitely change after he proves he is healthy. There were no TE's in the 1st round and I highly doubt that actually happens in the real draft. Locker wasn't even in the 1st round....that kinda sucks after being projected to go #1 last year.

Was Tebow? :bigsmile:

[JMR8]

Kid is awesome. Glad to have him be a part of ND! Wish nothing but the best for him and I hope he dominates at the next level.

[step30044]

http://www.ndsmcobserver.com/viewpoint/goodbye-notre-dame-it-has-been-great-1.1880926

Nice ..

[KamaraPolice]

What a good guy. Wish him the best. Hope the colts draft him.

[CincyDamer]

What a class act! Go represent Tight End U in the league.

[IrishFan123]

http://www.nfl.com/videos/nfl-everything-to-prove/09000d5d81e0c444/Gatorade-Everything-to-Prove-Trailer

[rikrok58]

I dont know if you guys have seen this or not, also I hope folks don't mind me posting links to yahoo sports lol....

http://sports.yahoo.com/nfl/blog/shutdown_corner/post/The-Shutdown-40-30-Kyle-Rudolph-TE-Notre-D?urn=nfl-321120

I think its a pretty legit comparison. Rob Gronkowski is a solid tight end and I think KRudy is gonna have a fine NFL career.

[NDgrandson]

I have to say this is a bold decision. I don't think there is any chance he or anyone else knows where he will be with his recovery. If he were to put in a full healthy season he might go higher, rated as #1 or not. What if he falls in workouts? Might he not hire an agent?

Well... there will be a lot of NFL personnel at ND for the workout day. Rudolph is not doing the combine. He is doing the workout at ND along with many other seniors. Guys like Walls and B.Smith will be happy with the attention at that workout. So one chance for the NFL scouts to see Rudolph (maybe he'll do individual workouts?).

[jbrown_9999]

Well... there will be a lot of NFL personnel at ND for the workout day. Rudolph is not doing the combine. He is doing the workout at ND along with many other seniors. Guys like Walls and B.Smith will be happy with the attention at that workout. So one chance for the NFL scouts to see Rudolph (maybe he'll do individual workouts?).
ND's pro day this year is on April 7th (two weeks later than the past couple years). Hopefully KR will be fully recovered by then.

[NDisNCin2010]

ND's pro day this year is on April 7th (two weeks later than the past couple years). Hopefully KR will be fully recovered by then.

based on recent article in the chicago tribune looks like he is doing great right now out in his california workouts...and so should/will be defintiely 100% by the 4-7-11 workout.

[Purebred Irishman]

http://profootballtalk.nbcsports.com/category/rumor-mill/


Notre Dame tight end Kyle Rudolph is 6-foot-6 and 259 pounds with 34-inch arms and 10 1/4-inch hands. The big hands help explain Rudolph’s outstanding pass-catching skills; he rarely dropped passes for the Irish. Rudolph’s offensive tackle-like arms figure to help him as an in-line blocker.

[NDgrandson]

At what pick is Rudolph leaving early a poor choice?

[jbrown_9999]

At what pick is Rudolph leaving early a poor choice?
If 2011 draftees get paid using same system as in 2010 ,might not be a bad decision.Especially if Rookie pay scale gets put in place in 2012.

[lowayne]

No way to answer that. What if Rudy came back and got injured again, etc etc. Getting picked in the first round after the surgeries he has had would have been tough. Thus some analysts calling him a first round talent that goes in the 2nd.

[publicola]

No way to answer that. What if Rudy came back and got injured again, etc etc. Getting picked in the first round after the surgeries he has had would have been tough. Thus some analysts calling him a first round talent that goes in the 2nd.

Exactly. Most had him as the #1 TE, but still going early- to mid- second round. I think anything beyond mid-second round is low. I don't think it'll come to that. I think he'll still be the first TE taken.

[NDisNCin2010]

when both of your hammys rip off the bone midseason the year you declare your not going in the first round of the NFL Draft...period...i dont care how good his "workouts" went, a GM has no upside to reach and take a chance on him in the first...especially on a TE. if its me an im an NFL GM i stay away from ANY kid with serious prior injuries etc if i can (see: Bowers, Daquan)

[PDOGEMP]

the vikings got him

[Win4Gipper]

Numa Numa

[wicket]

not the best fit for him but not bad either

[Purebred Irishman]

not the best fit for him but not bad either

Firstly great to see Kyle getting drafted and I hope he has a great career.

Bit of a surprise seeing him go to the Vikings and i agree with you because of the QB situation that is there. It will be very interesting to see what they do with regards the QB position once free agency starts.

[domerdude]

REALLY wish that the Vikings would have taken Dalton or Mallet over Ponder. Oh well, maybe Christian can prove me wrong.

[Win4Gipper]

I know they were not able to trade down but at that point take best available and take care of another need dont reach.... it was awful... Gruden just sat there and laughed...

[NDisNCin2010]

I know they were not able to trade down but at that point take best available and take care of another need dont reach.... it was awful... Gruden just sat there and laughed...

gruden laughed at the selection of Kyle?

[IrishinTN]

gruden laughed at the selection of Kyle?

No, Ponder.

[Win4Gipper]

gruden laughed at the selection of Kyle?

yeah sorry was not very clear... on Ponder

And sure the guy may end up being an NFL starter some day but you dont use the #12 pick to reach on a guy who may pan out

reminds me of when we traded up to get Tvaris Jackson. We are the kings of reach

[wicket]

yeah sorry was not very clear... on Ponder

And sure the guy may end up being an NFL starter some day but you dont use the #12 pick to reach on a guy who may pan out

reminds me of when we traded up to get Tvaris Jackson. We are the kings of reach

nope, just terrible at handling the QB position

[NDGirlzRock]

REALLY wish that the Vikings would have taken Dalton or Mallet over Ponder. Oh well, maybe Christian can prove me wrong.

Ummmmmm I'm sorry to say that he won't prove you wrong!!! In my estimation both Dalton and Mallet will have good NFL careers!!! Ponder, along with Newton, will be busts just like JaMarcus Russell!!! Boneheaded picks there!!! Regardless, I'm happy to see Kyle getting his just due!!!

[Domer Dog]

Ummmmmm I'm sorry to say that he won't prove you wrong!!! In my estimation both Dalton and Mallet will have good NFL careers!!! Ponder, along with Newton, will be busts just like JaMarcus Russell!!! Boneheaded picks there!!! Regardless, I'm happy to see Kyle getting his just due!!!

I'm a big Vikes fan as well and happy to see Kyle head there, but I was dumbfounded by that first pick. Honestly, I thought Dalton or Kaepernick would have been good fits to run the west coast offense. Bottomline is that I've seen Ponder a couple of years in a row and he isn't bad, but he isn't special. If they wanted someone to take snaps and be vanilla, he's the man, but he is not the type to lead the final drive with 90 seconds left.

[IrishFan123]

http://www.nfl.com/videos/auto/09000d5d82157fe4/Everything-to-Prove-Episode-25-Part-2

[NDgrandson]

I think he is about to be on Rome is Burning too.