
Former Detroit Lions head coach Steve Mariucci has offered his condolences following the news of the passing of Charles Rogers, Detroit's first overall selection in the 2003 NFL Draft.
“I am very saddened to hear of Charles' passing. Charles was our first draft choice in my time with the Lions, and having the opportunity to select a premier player from Michigan State and a local Saginaw standout athlete was tremendously exciting. In coaching Charles, his talent and ability were very evident early on in his career,” Mariucci said.
“I feel strongly had he not suffered unfortunate injuries, he would have gone on to become an excellent NFL wide receiver.”
A statement from former Lions head coach (and current NFL Network analyst) Steve Mariucci, on Charles Rogers' death: pic.twitter.com/E8P8CZ1u1O
— Chris Burke (@ChrisBurkeNFL) November 11, 2019
Mariucci coached the Lions from 2003 to 2005.