Should the Saints sign veteran tight end Kyle Rudolph?

The New Orleans Saints have recently released veteran tight ends Jared Cook and Josh Hill. Furthermore, the Saints will be seeking to add proven talent at one of the most important positions on the offense.

During the Brees-Payton era, tight end play has been an integral part of the offensive success. Over the last four seasons, the New Orleans Saints have searched for consistent play in the tight end position, specifically in the passing game.

As NFC contenders, New Orleans will look to find proven talent to take the field in the upcoming 2021 season.

Earlier this week, veteran tight end Kyle Rudolph has been released by the Minnesota Vikings and could be the consistent playmaker the Saints need at the tight end position. He should also come at a relatively cheap cost.

Over the last 10 seasons, Rudolph has amassed 663 receptions, 48 touchdowns, and over 4,400 yards in his career. Rudolph has shown to be a great playmaker using speed, strength, and displaying great hands as a receiver.

In the 2020 season, Rudolph caught 28 receptions for 334 yards and 1 touchdown. Despite the low numbers, Rudolph managed to have one of his best career completion percentages with catching 75.7 percent of his passes during the season.

In 2019, Rudolph signed a four-year, 36-million dollar contract with over five million to be paid in the year 2021.

As the New Orleans Saints work around their salary cap challenges, general manager Mickey Loomis and coach Sean Payton will be sure to take a look at the elite NFL veteran.

Finally, the Saints may have emerging talent at the tight end position in Adam Trautman. In his rookie season, Trautman averaged 11 yards per catch and gained the trust of the Saints coaching staff, specifically Sean Payton.

If the New Orleans Saints can acquire veteran tight end Kyle Rudolph, expect Rudolph and Trautman to be one of the best tight end duos in the NFL.