Lions' Rogers suspended for four games
The Detroit Lions reciever Charles Rogers has been suspended four games for violating the NFL's substance abuse policy. Rogers has not contributed as much as expected this season, catching just five passes for 77 yards.The Associated Press
ALLEN PARK, Mich., Oct. 3 -- Detroit Lions receiver Charles Rogers will be suspended for four games for violating the NFL's substance abuse policy, ESPN reported Monday night.
Detroit Lions receiver Charles Rogers (80) cuts in front of Arizona Cardinals cornerback Coby Rhinehart for a touchdown in the first quarter at Ford Field in Detroit in this Sept. 7, 2003 file photo. (AP Photo/Duane Burleson)Unless Rogers appeals, the suspension could be announced this week, ESPN reported, citing sources.
"A player's status in the National Football League substance abuse program is strictly confidential unless the NFL announces a player's suspension," the Lions said in a statement. "Any questions regarding the policy should be directed to the NFL."
NFL spokesman Greg Aiello said the league had no comment. A message seeking comment from Rogers' agent, Kevin Poston, was left Monday night.
In three games this season, Rogers has caught just five passes for 77 yards.
After a loss at Tampa Bay on Sunday in which he wasn't thrown a pass until the fourth quarter, Rogers said he was confused about his current role in the offense.
He chose not to elaborate Monday.
"Today wouldn't be a good day for me to talk. I don't want to get into all that," Rogers said, speaking before reports of his suspension surfaced.
Rogers' first two receptions in his rookie season were touchdowns, and he led Detroit with 22 receptions for 243 yards and three scores in five games before breaking his right collarbone in practice and missing the rest of his rookie season.
In the first quarter of the last year's opener, Rogers broke the same bone and had season-ending surgery.
Story Produced by: Alan Festo
