Former Notre Dame and NFL tight end Kyle Rudolph is speaking out in defense of the Fighting Irish’s football independence.
He also had positive words to say in support of current head coach Marcus Freeman.
Critics often wonder why Notre Dame gets to be independent in football — though it does play five games a season against ACC teams, as part of a deal with that conference. All other Notre Dame sports teams play in the ACC.
During an interview, Rudolph said that the contract with NBC that allows the network to broadcast all Notre Dame home games, which runs through 2029, is what allows the Irish to stay independent.
He also said that Freeman’s likability has helped the Irish gain some new fans and convert some former haters.
Rudolph played three seasons with the Irish before going to the NFL, where he had a long career with the Minnesota Vikings and brief stops with the New York Giants and Tampa Bay Buccaneers.
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This article originally appeared on Fighting Irish Wire: Former Notre Dame star Kyle Rudolph pumps up Marcus Freeman
Reporting by Tim Healey, Fighting Irish Wire / Fighting Irish Wire
USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
