NFL Rumors: Minnesota Vikings’ Kyle Rudolph ready to talk extension

Minnesota Vikings’ tight end Kyle Rudolph certainly doesn’t lack confidence.

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Rudolph believes he is one of the NFL’s best tight ends, putting himself in a group with Dallas Cowboys’ tight end Jason Witten, New England Patriots’ tight end Rob Gronkowski, New Orleans Saints’ tight end Jimmy Graham and San Francisco 49ers’ tight end Vernon Davis.

That proclamation, however, has not led to the Vikings to dish out an extension to Rudolph. Although Rudolph is entering the final year of his deal, he has not had talks with the Vikings about an extension. According to Chris Tomasson of St. Paul Pioneer Press, Rudolph is ready to have those talks.

"The tight end has been saying since late last year he wants to sign an extension that would kick in starting with the 2015 season. He said there have been no negotiations yet, but that’s understandable during a year in which the Vikings brought in a new coaching staff and the draft was held two weeks later than normal“Obviously, my financial situation is completely in their hands right now,” Rudolph said Thursday. “I’ve got one year left on my deal here and I’m extremely excited for the changes that have been made around here (under first-year coach Mike Zimmer).“All I can worry about is going out and being successful. The contract will take care of itself. … I’d be more than happy to stay here for a long time.”"

Rudolph missed eight games last season, but still managed to make 30 receptions for 313 yards and three touchdowns. In his career, he has 109 receptions for 1,055 yards and 15 touchdowns.