Deadline nears for Rogers

[Michael82]

Matt Millen's logic about wide receiver Charles Rogers is impeccable.

"I'm hoping he's going to be in camp tomorrow," Millen said Tuesday. "I know he wants to be, and I know we want him to be, and I know his agent wants him to be, so . . ."

So what could possibly get in the way?

Only a contract impasse.

And despite the high hopes of Millen and chief operating officer Tom Lewand, the Lions' negotiations with Rogers, their first-round draft pick, apparently will go down to today's 3 p.m. reporting deadline for rookies, quarterbacks and selected veterans.

Neither Lewand nor Rogers' agent -- Kevin Poston of Farmington Hills -- has disclosed how close the sides are to an agreement, but talks are continuing. That means there is at least a chance Rogers will be ready to begin two-a-day workouts at the Allen Park practice facility Thursday morning. MORE... (http://www.freep.com/sports/lions/lions23_20030723.htm)

[BillsFever]

ALLEN PARK, Mich. (AP) -- Charles Rogers wants to be an asset for the Detroit Lions, not a distraction.

The former Michigan State star said he would be at the start of training camp after agreeing to a six-year contract with a signing bonus of $14.4 million Wednesday.

Rogers will make $40 million over the six years, and with incentives he could make as much as $54.6 million, a source within the league involved in the contract negotiations told The Associated Press on the condition of anonymity.

"It's a great feeling to be able to get that camaraderie going," Rogers said. "I'm just anxious and excited to go play football."

Rogers' signing means the NFL's first four picks are all signed.

http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/football/2003/preview/news/2003/07/23/lions_rogers_ap/