The case for the Minnesota Vikings to trade tight end Kyle Rudolph

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Jan 1, 2017; Minneapolis, MN, USA; Minnesota Vikings tight end Kyle Rudolph (82) against the Chicago Bears at U.S. Bank Stadium. The Vikings defeated the Bears 38-10. Mandatory Credit: Brace Hemmelgarn-USA TODAY Sports /

Coming off of the best season of his NFL career, the trade value of the Minnesota Vikings’ tight end may never be higher than it is right now.

In terms of production, Minnesota Vikings tight end Kyle Rudolph has never really had a better statistical season during his career than he did in 2016.

During his sixth year in the NFL, the Vikings’ tight end caught 83 passes for 840 yards and seven touchdowns. His final numbers for catches and receiving yards were both single-season career highs.

The question is, can he continue to produce out on the field like he did in 2016? Before last season, Rudolph averaged 47 catches, 458 receiving yards, and five touchdowns per 16 games during his career.

Oct 31, 2016; Chicago, IL, USA; Minnesota Vikings tight end Kyle Rudolph (82) is defended by Chicago Bears defensive back Harold Jones-Quartey (29) during the first half at Soldier Field. Mandatory Credit: Kamil Krzaczynski-USA TODAY Sports /

But thanks to his increased statistical output, Rudolph’s value as a trade asset for Minnesota also saw a spike in its value in 2016.

Not being afraid to cut ties with some of its most talented players is what separates the elite NFL franchises of today from the rest in the league. If the Vikings are truly serious about transforming into a consistent force in the NFL during the upcoming future, making a move like trading Rudolph or something similar is the type of transaction that may need to become more ordinary.

But why should the Vikings even consider trading away their best tight end?

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