38 years is way too short of amount of time for someone to get on Earth. That was my first reaction when I heard the news about former Michigan State receiver and 2003 number-two overall draft pick to the Detroit Lions, Charles Rogers.
TMZ reports it was a liver disease and cancer that wound up running its course.
Off the field issues get linked to Rogers who battled through more than just injuries during and after his NFL career.
Charles Rogers gets remembered by NFL fans for being a bust but college fans remember a legend.
Obviously Michigan State fans feel that way having watched him weekly but Notre Dame fans can’t name many players that tormented the Irish quite like No. 1 in green and white did.
Michigan State teammate and former NFL tight end Chris Baker remembered his friend on Twitter this morning:
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 đź’”
— Chris Baker (@Toten86) November 11, 2019
In two career games against Notre Dame, Rogers was the best player on the field compiling 11 receptions, 291 yards and three touchdowns in those games.