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Former No. 2 pick Charles Rogers dies at 38

Joe Robbins / Getty Images Sport / Getty

Former Detroit Lions and Michigan State wide receiver Charles Rogers died Monday at 38 years old, the Lions announced.

"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," the Lions said in a statement.

"We extend our heartfelt sympathies and condolences to his friends and family during this difficult time."

The Lions drafted Rogers second overall in 2003 after his standout career with the Spartans.

During his two seasons at Michigan State, Rogers racked up 135 receptions, 2,821 receiving yards, and 29 total touchdowns. He won the Fred Biletnikoff Award in his junior year, and his 27 receiving TDs are still the most in the program's history.

Rogers was unable to replicate his college success in the pros. He tallied just 36 catches, 440 receiving yards, and four touchdowns in 15 career NFL games across three seasons.

The Saginaw, Michigan, native worked out for a handful of teams after his release from the Lions in 2006 but was unable to catch on with any club, ending his pro career.

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