RB GEORGE ROGERS (1981)
Rogers was the top overall pick in the ‘81 draft, following a Heisman trophy winning senior season with the Gamecocks. The former All-American is still South Carolina’s leading rusher, by a wide margin, running for over 5,200 yards in his career.
Rogers was selected by the New Orleans Saints, and went on to lead the NFL in rushing yards as a rookie. He averaged 105 ypg on the ground, and scored 13 touchdowns. That season, he was named Offensive Rookie of the Year and received his first Pro Bowl invite.
After four years in New Orleans, Rogers landed in the nation’s capital, where he’d finish out his seven-year career with the Washington Redskins. In 1986, he’d lead the NFL in total touchdowns with 18, and the following year, he’d win a Super Bowl.
Rogers decided to go out on top, retiring after the 1987 season. He rushed for over 7,000 yards and scored 54 touchdowns in his career before calling it quits. Rogers can now be found in Columbia, where he heads the George Rogers Foundation to help first generation college students receive financial aid. You can always find him at Williams-Brice Stadium on Saturdays in the Fall.