Lessons From The Mad Dog Show in 2017: Charles Rogers Wants Better

It's no secret Charles Rogers' football career went far from planned. The former No. 2 overall draft pick played in a total of 15 professional games before fading away leaving many to ponder his condition.

Cody J. Tucker of the Lansing State Journal re-introduced Rogers to public life after tracking him down Rogers in Fort Myers, Florida.

After reaching out to comment on the article, Rogers appeared on the Mad Dog Show last spring in his first radio interview in some time to discuss his life post-football.

Rogers candidly talked about what he believed to be many of the causes of his downfall, citing an inability to get away from negative influences in Michigan and the passing of his grandfather as major factors.

Without positive voices  to provide solid advice to Rogers, he suffered.

"Somebody had to break the barrier," Rogers told the Mad Dog to illustrate his attitude toward navigating success on his own.

Following an immensely successful high school career, Rogers said current Arkansas running backs coach Reggie Mitchell recruited him to play at Michigan State.

Though Rogers spoke kindly of his professional coaches, it seems as if a change in structure--or lack thereof--affected his career trajectory heavily.

"I know how to handle the situation better," Rogers said while describing advice he would provide his kids if they were in his place, adding, "I wish someone would have taught me how to handle the situation".

The former Michigan State wide receiver also discussed his desire to get involved with mentoring and the college recruiting process so he can share his lessons with young people.

At one point, Rogers' reflections turn into asking the one question that has plagued his post-football life:

"Do you think I was a bust?" Rogers asked the Mad Dog.

Lessons from The Mad Dog Show in 2017 looks back at some of the top moments from the show in honor of the upcoming new year. Check out yesterday's piece on Olympic hurlding legend, Edwin Moses' near paralyzation here.