Dusters add offensive firepower
Published on July 13, 2004 under Intense Football League (Intense)
Amarillo Venom News Release
On Tuesday the Amarillo Dusters bolstered their already high-octane offense with the signing of NFL veteran wide receiver Kirk Rogers.
"This is an impact signing," said Dusters Director of Football Operations Warren McCarty. "I'm a big believer in âDon't Fix it if it Ain't Broke', but this move makes us better. Kirk set records in college, spent 2 years in the NFL system, and had a taste in the CFL this summer. He's a burner, and he's a very productive receiver. We've worked extremely hard at taking care of our players, and doing things in a professional manner. A signing like this just proves that our hard work is paying off. "
Rogers (5'11, 185 lbs.) is a native of Olney, TX and played his college ball at Hardin-Simmons University (NCAA DIII) in Abilene from 1998-2001. As a three-year starter at HSU, he finished as the school's all-time leading receiver with 199 catches for 4,117 yards and 50 touchdowns. He earned All-Conference and All-American Honors at HSU, prompting the Kansas City Chiefs to sign him in 2002. He spent the entire 2002 season on the Chiefs' practice roster, and was allocated to NFLEurope in the spring of 2003. He starred for the Berlin Thunder, grabbing 28 receptions for 304 yards. The Chiefs released Rogers at the conclusion of 2003 training camp. In the spring of 2004, Rogers signed with the B.C. Lions of the CFL, but was unable to secure an active roster spot.
"It's shocking how many quality players aren't able to secure jobs in the CFL" McCarty said. "They only allow 19 Americans on each roster, and it's very hard for an American rookie to unseat an American CFL veteran player. I spoke with Jacques Chapdelaine, the receivers coach for the B.C. Lions, and he raved about Kirk. He said that they had timed him at 4.36 on grass, but he struggled with a nagging wrist injury throughout camp. He was very surprised that no other CFL teams had signed him, and encouraged us to pursue Kirk. He thinks he is an outstanding receiver and can play in the NFL or CFL, if he gets the right opportunity."
Rogers will replace Kareem Larrimore on the Dusters roster, as Larrimore underwent season-ending knee surgery on Tuesday as well.
"Kirk is a hard worker and has that West Texas background, and I know he'll fit in great with our guys," said Dusters Coach Don Carthel. "He played for Alan Wartes (brother of former CISD Athletic Director Mike Wartes). Alan is a great friend of mine and he had nothing but positives to attribute to Kirk Rogers. I think the fans in the Panhandle will embrace him and enjoy watching him help us win the IFL Championship."
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