There is some tragic news to share this morning, as former Michigan State Spartan and Detroit Lions wide receiver Charles Rogers has passed away at the age of 38.
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The news was confirmed by Detroit Free Press Spartans writer Chris Solari, as well as the tweets of several of Rogers’ former teammates.
Can confirm: Former MSU and Lions WR Charles Rogers has died. The Saginaw native was 38 years old.
— Chris Solari (@chrissolari) November 11, 2019
Devastated to learn of the passing of my spartan brother Charles Rodgers. 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 💔
— Chris Baker 🇺🇸 (@Toten86) November 11, 2019
The Saginaw native played college football for the Spartans and earned himself unanimous All-America honors, and was viewed as one of the top college wide receivers in the country.
Charles Rogers MSU highlight video
He was selected by the Detroit Lions with the second overall pick in the 2003 NFL Draft and would sign a $39.5 million contract with the team, but injuries and off-field problems would plague his career. He suffered two broken collarbones in his first two years; he would also be suspended by the team for failing drug tests.
While with Michigan State, Rogers amassed 135 receptions for 2,821 yards and also set the school record with 27 touchdowns. He finished his NFL career with 36 receptions for a total of 440 yards and four touchdowns.
