Coming home has been special for Eric Rogers: ‘Who wouldn’t want to play for their own state?’
PISCATAWAY, N.J. — There is a confidence to Eric Rogers that is noticeable from the get-go, the Rutgers football defensive back having integrated himself quite well into the defense. Rogers has seen some significant snaps the past few weeks as the transfer portal addition has proven himself to be a reliable player in a strong Rutgers secondary.
A junior, Rogers has been a nice addition to a deep and talented secondary at Rutgers. On Saturday against No. 1 Ohio State, he had a tackle and a pass defended.
He now has a pass defended in three straight games. On the season, he has 12 total tackles and four passes defended. Rogers will be counted on heavily when he and his teammates take on No. 22 Iowa (7-2, 4-2 Big Ten).
Out of Burlington Township High School (Burlington, New Jersey), Rogers was recruited by Rutgers but wasn’t offered a scholarship. He was ranked a three-star recruit by Rivals.
He spent the last two years at Northern Illinois University before transferring this offseason. The program that didn’t offer him out of high school welcomed his addition to an already strong defense.
“Absolutely – who wouldn’t want to play for their own state?” Rogers told Rutgers Wire.
“Also had guys that I’m really close with that came here a few years ago, he went to high school with me. He was a wide receiver, Everett Wormley. So to be able to play for your home school, everybody wants to do it. So I’m glad I made it happen.
“I talk to my former teammates at NIU every day 0 like it’s really two different lifestyles we live like, completely different. That’s why I say I never take any of this for granted. I’m really blessed to be able to do what I’m doing here.”
Rogers has an infectious personality but one that comes across as genuine and sincere. There is an energy to him, even when he is sitting, that is clearly evident.
As he sits during his interview, he leans forward. His hands are clasped together. They move in unison as he talks.
Being closer to home works both ways, he says. Not only is his family easily able to watch his football games, but he is also able to hit home regularly.
It was a selling point in coming to Rutgers.
“That’s kind of the biggest thing for me being able to see my family after the games,” Rogers said.
“I had my brothers out at the game, watching my little brother in high school, just being able to be closer to him and watch him grow up. It’s a really cool experience.”
