Charles Rogers, a former Michigan State star and wide receiver for the NFL’s Detroit Lions, passed away at age 38 on Monday, November 11, according to reports. Former Michigan State teammate and NFL tight end Chris Baker was among the first to share the news.
“Devastated to learn of the passing of my spartan brother Charles (Rogers),” 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.”
Rogers was reportedly dealing with serious medical issues leading up to his death and was treated at a medical facility just last week, according to TMZ Sports.
Additional information on Rogers’ passing can be seen below.
Charles Rogers Cause of Death: Complications From Liver Disease/Cancer, Per Reports
https://www.instagram.com/p/BogFpYIBxy3/
An official cause of death for Charles Rogers has not been confirmed at this time, but Rogers’ ex-Saginaw High basketball coach and athletic director Marshall Thomas told MLive.com that Rogers had been diagnosed with liver disease and cancer and was awaiting a liver transplant.
“He had cancer, whether that was related to his liver I don’t know,” Thomas said. “They had given him 30 days to live if he didn’t get a liver transplant.”
After starring in high school and leading Saginaw High to a state football championship and winning state titles in track and field, Rogers signed with Michigan State University as a five-star recruit. He would go on to record 135 catches for 2,821 yards and 21 touchdowns in two seasons with the Spartans while earning consensus All-American honors and the Biletnikoff Award as the nation’s top receiver.
Rogers would go on to become the No. 2 overall pick of the Detroit Lions, but injuries and substance abuse issues derailed his professional career.
Our deepest condolences go out to Rogers’ family and friends during this incredibly difficult and tragic time.
