Lions admit defeat with Rogers, cut former No. 2 overall pick

ANN ARBOR, Mich. -- This is not what the Detroit Lions or Charles Rogers had in mind when the wide receiver was drafted second overall three years ago.

After being cut Saturday, his career in Detroit ended with just 36 receptions for 440 yards and four touchdowns along with two broken collarbones and a four-game suspension.

First-year coach Rod Marinelli was unimpressed by Rogers' work ethic and production during training camp, when he was slowed by a sore knee. The new staff also did not have a history with Rogers like team president Matt Millen, who drafted the former Michigan State star and gave him a $14.2 million signing bonus.

Rogers simply wasn't deemed good enough to make Marinelli's team, which is valuing hard work over talent.

"We picked the men that are right for this football team," Marinelli said. "It's behind us. I wish him the very best. We just move on."

Marinelli said Rogers didn't show up Saturday morning at the team's practice facility in Allen Park. Marinelli said director of pro personnel Sheldon White left two messages for Rogers and informed his agent, Kevin Poston, of the team's decision.

"Maybe this is just one of those wrong-place, wrong-time things," Millen told the Associated Press on Saturday night. "I was a big fan of Charles when I drafted him, and I still am. He just needs to decide to use all of his skills."

Poston said he can start finding a new home for the receiver Sunday if he is not picked up on waivers with his current contract.

"After 24 hours we will start contacting teams and I'm sure teams will be contacting us," Poston said. "He's a 25-year-old receiver with a lot of talent."

Messages seeking comment were left on Rogers' cell phone.

In 2003, the Lions and Rogers agreed to a six-year contract -- with a team option for a seventh season -- that could've been worth almost $55 million.

Detroit drafted Rogers one year after taking quarterback Joey Harrington, the No. 3 pick overall, envisioning the duo leading it to success. Since winning the 1957 NFL title, the Lions have won only one playoff game.

Rogers was cut five months after Harrington was traded to Miami for a conditional 2007 pick.