STRENGTHS - Rogers definitely fits the mold of the big receiver that NFL teams have been searching for the last ten years. Using his strength, body and long arms, Rogers is able to create separation by pushing off and shield defender. A good feel for coverages leads him to consistently be able to find open spots in coverage. Soft, natural hands combine with Rogers' body control, coordination and concentration to enable him to twist and adjust to make tough catches on off-target throws. Possessing good size, jumping ability and hands, Rogers is excellent at going up to win jump ball battles over cornerbacks, which makes him a dangerous red-zone receiver. Fearless heading into traffic, he maintains focus on ball so that he can make catch with defender closing on him. Ability to get ball tucked away fast helps him to easily hold onto the ball when he gets crushed right after the catch. A strong, physical runner with good balance, Rogers consistently is able to run through arm/grab tackles to gain yards after contact. He has experience returning kickoffs.
WEAKNESSES - Obviously, Rogers' being dismissed from Tennessee for off-field issues is the biggest concern surrounding him. He will need to prove to NFL teams that he can keep his off-field issues under control in order to be drafted before the late rounds. More of a smooth and fluid athlete, Rogers is not a "quick twitch" athlete. He lacks good initial quickness off the ball and burst out of his cuts, which will hinder his ability to get open against man coverage in the NFL. While he can make big plays down the field by making tough catches with a defender on his hip and on jump balls, he lacks the elite speed to get separation on deep routes and to run away from the defense after the catch. He lacks the speed to out-run defenders who have the angle on him.
SUMMARY - After a breakout 2010 season (67 catches for 1040 yards with 9 TD's), Rogers was expected to combine with Justin Hunter to form an elite receiver Combo for the Volunteers. Unfortunately, Rogers was suspended from the Tennessee team and ended up transferring down to Tennessee Tech so that he could play immediately in 2011 and he had a solid season (61 catches for 893 yards with 10 TD's). Even though Rogers lacks the quick burst of acceleration and top end speed that everyone prefers, his combination of smooth athleticism, size, strength and receiving skills give him the tools to be a productive starting receiver in the NFL. Overall, if Rogers did not have any off-field issues he would likely be a second round draft pick, but with concerns about his character he will likely be a third or fourth round pick. If he can stay focused on and off the field then I expect Rogers to become a quality starting receiver in the NFL who catches a lot of passes and makes big plays in the red-zone.