The Minnesota Vikings have become increasingly erratic in how they’ve operated in regards to their offense. Not just in how it’s coached, but also how it’s constructed. Back in 2017, they were a physical group that liked to run the football while utilizing play action to create big plays. Then last year it felt like there was a fundamental shift in what they want to do.
When Kirk Cousins was signed as a free agent, the team seemed determined to revamp the system around him. That meant a pass-first attack. The wide receivers became the greater focal points. While Cousins had solid numbers, the Vikings were no longer able to control the line of scrimmage or run the ball like the previous year.
Something that was made obvious in their crushing losses to Chicago. Their strange decisions are about to hit another step with news filtering out that they may be preparing to trade tight end Kyle Rudolph. A move that undoubtedly is being applauded by the rest of the NFC North.
Minnesota Vikings don’t realize what they have in Kyle Rudolph
It’s easy to forget that Rudolph is a two-time Pro Bowler. When the Vikings actually make an effort to feature him in the offense, he’s shown an ability to impose his will on defenses thanks to his mix of size and strong hands. Now some people are trying to sell the fact that 2nd round pick Irv Smith Jr. is ready and able to replace him.
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Except no he isn’t. Smith is a good athlete with speed and good hands. There’s one big difference though. He is 6’2, 242 lbs. In case people are wondering, that’s small for a tight end. Rudolph is 6’6, 265 lbs. Four inches taller and over 20 lbs heavier. In a game where size can make such a huge difference, it’s baffling that Minnesota is convincing themselves trading Rudolph is a wise decision.
Yes he’s a bit expensive and he turns 30 this year but there is a key reality in play. Trading him will make the Vikings receiving corps one of the shortest in the NFL. Adam Thielen is 6’2. Stefon Diggs is 6’0. Running back Dalvin Cook is 5’10. Replacing Rudolph with Smith will place even greater demands on Cousins to throw pinpoint accurate passes, especially in the red zone.
Not that the Bears or any other NFC team will be complaining.
