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Rudolph: Complete skill set makes me NFL's best TE

Joe Robbins / Getty Images Sport / Getty

Comparing tight ends in the current era often takes into account little more than the impact each player can make in the passing game.

While receiving ability is certainly a major part of the expected role within a given offensive scheme, most teams also ask their tight ends to contribute as in-line blockers.

It's that need for a complete skill set that has Kyle Rudolph sticking to a previously stated belief that he's the NFL's premier player at the position.

"Absolutely," Rudolph said, according to Chris Tomasson of The Pioneer Press. "Route-running and catching balls, to many, is all that matters. But it's also (about) being one of the best blockers, one of the best pass-protectors."

Rudolph points to the ever-growing world of fantasy sports as a main reason for the football community valuing receiving production over all else.

"The world revolves around fantasy football," Rudolph added. "That's just the nature of sports right now, and that's just the way it is. But I know that when I come to work every Monday, and I (watch) the film, I may have only caught two balls, but if I did my job in the run game and pass protection, (Vikings coach Mike Zimmer) is going to be happy."

While Rudolph has long established himself as a capable NFL tight end, few would dispute the fact that Rob Gronkowski and several others stand well above the competition.

Still, the 26-year-old remains a key contributor on a Vikings offense looking to take a significant step forward this fall. Rudolph bounced back from two injury-shortened seasons to start in all 16 games last year, hauling in 49 receptions for 495 yards and five touchdowns.

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