Giants tight end Kyle Rudolph posted a heartfelt message to the franchise after being released.

The New York Giants are attempting to bring in fresh faces at the franchise. Unfortunately, it meant that Kyle Rudolph had to bear the brunt of that decision.

On Wednesday, the Giants announced that Rudolph will be leaving the franchise after just one season. The 32-year-old only had 26 catches for 257 yards with a touchdown for Brian Daboll’s side last term.

Rudolph previously spent a decade with the Minnesota Vikings before making the move to New York. However, he does not intend to hang up his boots soon after becoming a free agent. In fact, Rudolph even texted ESPN’s Adam Schefter informing him that he plans to play for a top team in the NFL next season.

In a social media post, Rudolph confirmed his departure from the Giants. He also thanked all the fans and ownership at the Giants franchise. “Certainly not the year any of us expected, but a year we will never forget… Thanks to everyone in the building who took in and helped this old guy who needed to relearn everything about a new organization.” he wrote.

.@Giants Fans thanks for taking me and my family in this past year! Certainly not the year any of us expected, but a year we will never forget.. We're appreciative of the Mara and Tisch Families for giving us the opportunity to be a Giant. pic.twitter.com/HSZzGGTXRI

— Kyle Rudolph (@KyleRudolph) March 2, 2022

Why did Giants release Kyle Rudolph?

Releasing Kyle Rudolph was paramount for the Giants in their bid to get under the salary cap. With the Giants roughly $12 million over the salary cap, GM Joe Schoen’s cost-cutting measures began with cutting Rudolph.

Reports from NFL Network claim that Rudolph’s departure from the franchise will free up around $5million in cap space. The two-time Pro Bowler had signed a two-year deal with the franchise in 2021.

Soon after, the Giants also revealed that running back Devontae Booker was offloaded as well. Booker rushed for 593 yards in four starts and 16 games played last season. Although he was impressive, Booker’s release will clear $2.125 million in cap space for the Giants.

It is believed that the Giants will be looking to make a few more ‘tough decisions’ to get back under the salary cap. Reports claim that the franchise is looking to waver $40 million off the salary cap.

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