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8:52 AM PT — The Detroit Lions issued a statement … saying, “We are deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Charles Rogers.”
“From Saginaw, to East Lansing, to Detroit, Charles’ connection to the state of Michigan and its football community was felt by many during the course of his life. We extend our heartfelt and condolences to his friends and family during this difficult time.”
7:33 AM PT — Rogers had been diagnosed with liver disease and cancer and was awaiting a liver transplant before he died, his former high school coaches told MLive.com.
“He had cancer, whether that was related to his liver I don’t know,” Rogers’ ex-Saginaw High basketball coach Marshall Thomas said.
“They had given him 30 days to live if he didn’t get a liver transplant.”
Rogers’ high school football coach Don Durrett added, “I called his mom at the hospital over the weekend and got a chance to talk to Charles … He said he was going to the Lord.”
7:21 AM PT — New info in the death of Charles Rogers — we’re told the ex-NFL player had suffered a medical issue recently and was being treated at a medical facility last week.
Still not clear on the details surrounding Rogers’ condition but we’re told Charles’ mother was helping out with his care.
One person close to Rogers tells us they had spoken with him as recently as this weekend and told us they believed Rogers was “in good spirits.”
Charles Rogers — the #2 overall pick in the 2003 NFL Draft — has died, TMZ Sports has confirmed. He was only 38.
The details surrounding Rogers’ death are unclear. We’re working on it.
One of the people confirming his death is former Michigan State teammate Chris Baker.
“Devastated to learn of the passing of my spartan brother Charles Rodgers,” Baker said.
“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 selected by the Detroit Lions and flashed huge potential — catching 22 passes for 243 yards and 2 touchdowns during his first 5 games of the ’03 season. But, he suffered a broken clavicle, which ended his rookie campaign.
The following season, he broke his clavicle again — on just the 3rd play of the ’04 season.
He was cut by the Lions in 2006, essentially ending his NFL career.
After his football career ended, Rogers admitted he had struggled with substance abuse — including an addiction to Vicodin. He had been arrested multiple times for alcohol-related issues.
Rogers — who reportedly signed a $40 mil rookie contract with the Lions — is survived by 8 children.
Rogers was a legend at MSU — where he earned 1st-team All-American honors during his 2002 junior season, when he posted 68 catches for 1,351 yards and 13 TDs.
Story developing …
Originally Published — 5:57 AM PT