Former NFL Receiver Rogers Dead at the Age of 38

Former Detroit Lions receiver Charles Rogers, whose NFL career unraveled amid injuries and off-field problems, has died aged 38, former team-mates said Monday.

“Devastated to learn of the passing of my spartan brother Charles (Rogers),” former Michigan State team-mate Chris Baker wrote on Twitter.

“Spoke with his mom this morning.
Please pray for her and his children.
Please also be respectful of their privacy at this difficult time. Rip Chuck.”

Former Michigan State football All-American and Detroit Lions wide receiver Charles Rogers has died. He was 38. https://t.co/8qY9xd4vaC

— USA TODAY (@USATODAY) November 11, 2019

US media reports gave no indication of Rogers’ cause of death.

Rogers entered the NFL with great expectations after being chosen by the Lions with the second overall pick in the 2003 Draft.

But the receiver lasted only three seasons in the sport after twice breaking his collarbone in the formative stages of his professional career.

In 2005 he was suspended for four games for a third violation of the NFL’s substance-abuse policy, and although he returned from suspension he was eventually released by the Lions in 2006.

Subsequent tryouts with the Miami Dolphins, New England Patriots and Tampa Bay Buccaneers all proved unsuccessful.

Charles Rogers finished with NFL career numbers of just 36 catches for 440 yards and four touchdowns in 15 games.

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