Kyle Rudolph, shown scoring a touchdown against Michigan on September 11, 2010, is skipping his senior season at Notre Dame in favor of the NFL Draft. (WSBT Photo) |
Two weeks ago Kyle Rudolph announced he was passing on his senior year at Notre Dame, and declaring himself eligible for the 2011 NFL Draft.
He's caught his final pass for Notre Dame, and now, he's taking the time to say goodbye.
Rudolph wrote the following letter to the Notre Dame student body in Wednesday's Observer, the school newspaper:
"To my fellow Irish students:
I can’t thank all of you enough. You have been there for me and the rest of my teammates through the highs and lows and through it all, you have showed your loyalty and unwavering support. Every Saturday, you showed up and gave your all to make Notre Dame Stadium the best place in the country for college football, and for that, I’ll be forever grateful.
I am so thankful to have had the opportunity to play football for the University of Notre Dame. I loved being both a student and an athlete here, and I’ll cherish each minute that I wore the blue and gold. This school and this city hold a special place in my heart and I intend to remain an active part of this community that has given me so much.
I am very excited about whatever the future holds for me, but know that regardless of where my next stop may be, I will always be Irish!
Finally, I’d like to give special recognition to my little brother, Louis Nix III, who will be wearing the No. 9 and continuing the tradition!
All the best.
Kyle Rudolph
Rudolph leaves Notre Dame with the 4th most receptions all-time by a tight end. He is projected to be the top tight end taken in the upcoming NFL draft.
