Vikings tight end Kyle Rudolph undergoes successful groin surgery

Minnesota Vikings coach Mike Zimmer said tight end Kyle Rudolph underwent groin surgery on Tuesday. Rudolph left Sunday's loss to the Saints during the fourth quarter after injuring his groin.

Minnesota Vikings coach Mike Zimmer said tight end Kyle Rudolph underwent groin surgery on Tuesday, according to Chris Tomasson of the St. Paul Pioneer Press.

Zimmer said he hopes Rudolph will be back before Week 8. It was reported Monday that he would miss about six weeks.

Rudolph left Sunday's loss to the New Orleans Saints in the fourth quarter after injuring his groin. In three games this season, he had 10 catches for 96 yards and one touchdown.

• Vikings place QB Matt Cassel on injured reserve

A broken foot ended Rudolph's 2013 season after eight games.

In July, Rudolph signed a five-year contract extension with the Vikings that could be worth up to $40 million.

• NFL fan poll: Should Roger Goodell keep his job?

- Paul Palladino