ESPN 1500 Twin Cities expects Kyle Rudolph to be a "full-time starter" in 2012. Rudolph played 46.9 percent of snaps as a rookie compared to Visanthe Shiancoe's 75.4 percent. Neither Shiancoe (free agent) nor Jimmy Kleinsasser (retirement) is expected back in 2012, which would leave the 2011 second-rounder as an every-down player. Rudolph should be a prime red-zone target for Christian Ponder next season.

Kyle Rudolph caught just three passes for 15 yards on four targets against the Bears in Week 17. The rookie second-rounder took over as the Vikes' primary tight end down the stretch, but failed to top 25 yards in the final six games. A favorite of Pro Football Focus, Rudolph is a fine all-around tight end with impressive athleticism and hands. A fine Dynasty buy, Rudolph projects as the 2012 starter with Visanthe Shiancoe reaching free agency.

Kyle Rudolph played more snaps than Visanthe Shiancoe for the second consecutive game in Week 16.

Kyle Rudolph caught two passes for 23 yards and a touchdown in Week 16. This is a reminder that Rudolph needs to be on the fantasy radar going into next season with Vicanthe Shiancoe set to reach free agency. He currently grades out as the fourth-ranked tight end, according to Pro Football Focus metrics.

Rookie Kyle Rudolph played more snaps (38) than Visanthe Shiancoe (36) for the first time all season in Week 15. It's a smart move to begin the changing of the guard now with Shiancoe set to reach free agency at age 32. An athletic pass catcher with fine all-around skills, Rudolph has surprisingly graded out as Pro Football Focus' No. 4 tight end this season. He's an offseason "buy" in Dynasty leagues.

Percy Harvin "loves" the potential of Vikings rookie TE Kyle Rudolph. "He's a freak athlete," said Harvin. "He's probably got ... the best hands as far as catching the ball that I've ever seen. ... He's big, strong, all the things you want in a skillful tight end." Rudolph is another Vikes skill player held back by OC Bill Musgraves' bizarre substitution patters. The 6'7" former basketball was standing on the sidelines next to Percy Harvin in the red-zone package last week.

Vikings TE Kyle Rudolph played just 22-of-85 snaps in Sunday's game against the Broncos. Rudolph has some promise and deserves to be on the field more, but this tells you all you need to know about his fantasy value this season. Should Visanthe Shiancoe leave as a free agent next season, Rudolph could land on some sleeper lists.

Vikings TE Kyle Rudolph (quad) is listed as questionable for Week 13. Rudolph got in a limited work week, but is on track to return against the Broncos. He'll continue to essentially split production with Visanthe Shiancoe.

Kyle Rudolph (quad) was limited in Vikings practice for the second straight day Thursday. Rudolph has a good chance of returning against the Broncos, but shouldn't be considered a shoo-in if he's limited again on Friday. You should be able to do better for a TE2 this week.

Kyle Rudolph (quad) was limited in Vikings practice Wednesday. Rudolph didn't practice at all last week and was inactive against the Falcons. His return bodes well for his chances of returning against the Broncos.