South Carolina Football: Ranking the top-20 NFL Gamecocks of all-time
By Kevin Miller
South Carolina Football’s No. 6 Greatest NFL Player of All-Time:
Running Back George Rogers
The only Heisman Trophy winner to play his college ball in the state of South Carolina (sorry, Clemson fans), George Rogers (1977-1980) was an easy choice as the 1st-overall pick in the 1981 NFL Draft to the New Orleans Saints. Rogers picked up right where he left off in college and dominated the field as a rookie, putting up his third-straight season of 1800+ yards from scrimmage (1979 and 1980 at Carolina and 1981 with the Saints)
In 1981, Rogers led the NFL in rushing yards, was a First-Team All-Pro and Pro Bowler, and won the NFL’s Offensive Rookie of the Year award. In ’82, Rogers had over 500 yards in just five games before injuries ended his season. More injuries and substance abuse battles plagued the rest of #38’s NFL life, but he still was a productive player when he was on the field.
Big George had four 1000-yard seasons in his seven-year career and led the league in rushing (1674 yards) as a rookie and in touchdowns (18 scores) in his 6th season with the Washington Redskins. He was inducted into the Saints Hall of Fame after his playing days were over.