Former Buccaneers Tight End's Transition Into Broadcasting Signals Conclusion Of NFL Career

The former Buccaneers is moving on to the broadcast booth which could signify the conclusion of his playing days.

Dustin Lewis | Jul 15, 2023

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Tampa Bay Buccaneers

Tom Brady isn't the only former Buccaneer that is planning to move into the broadcast booth during the next phase of his career.

NFL veteran and tight end Kyle Rudolph spent the 2022 season in Tampa Bay contributing to a position group that was attempting to replace Rob Gronkowski. Rudolph has yet to sign a deal with a team since entering free agency and recently informed The Athletic that he'll be joining CBS Sports to call Big Ten games this fall.

It all started when Rudolph made his broadcast debut during Notre Dame's spring game in April. He believes his connections to the Fighting Irish were important in kicking off his second career so quickly.

“I’m an anomaly, played 12 years in the NFL before starting my next chapter, but Notre Dame was still there opening doors and giving me opportunities," Rudolph said according to The Athletic.

Though he hasn't made an official announcement, this step could signify the conclusion of Rudolph's playing career. If so, he'll go down as one of the top tight ends in Minnesota Vikings history.

Rudolph spent the first ten years of his career in Minnesota after being selected in the second round in 2011. He caught 453 passes for 4,488 yards and 48 touchdowns during his time with the Vikings. That included three games of 100+ yards receiving and a career-high nine catches for 122 yards and two touchdowns in a win against Detriot in 2018.

Minnesota released Rudolph following the 2020 season. He landed with the New York Giants for one season prior to being signed by Tampa Bay last July. Rudolph only appeared in nine games with the Buccaneers, posting a career-worst three catches for 28 yards and one touchdown. His lone score in the regular-season finale pushed him to 50 touchdown catches in his career.

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Published Jul 15, 2023

DUSTIN LEWIS

Lewis joined BucsGameday when it was founded in 2022. He's also the Editor-In-Chief of NoleGameday. A graduate of Florida State, Lewis has worked for NG since 2016.