Former Football Star and Saginaw Native Dies

A former Detroit Lions wide receiver and Saginaw native has died. Charles Rogers, who graduated from Saginaw High School, went on to play for Michigan State University as an All American from 2000 to 2002. In high school, he was also talented in basketball and track.

While at MSU, Rogers received the Biletnikoff Award, which is given to college football’s top receiver. During his time with the Spartans, Rogers ran for 2,821 yards on 135 catches with 27 touchdowns before signing on with the Lions as the second overall pick in the 2003 NFL draft.

Charles Rogers, a wide receiver from Michigan State, holds up a Detroit Lions jersey after he was selected as the Lions first pick, second pick overall, at the NFL draft Saturday, April 26, 2003 in New York. (AP Photo/Ed Betz)

During his time with the Lions, Rogers had 440 yards in 36 catches with four touchdowns over 15 games. He left the league after three seasons due to injuries and drug-related issues. Rogers was 38. Reports indicate he had cancer and liver disease.