From 1985 to 1988, Rogers was the head coach of Detroit Lions the National Football League (NFL), tallying a mark of 18–40.

Born in Los Angeles, Rogers graduated from Jordan High School in Long Beach, California.

He played at end, with both wide receiver and defensive back roles, on the Fresno State Bulldogs football team in 1955 and 1956.

[5] One of his more famous quotes during his unsuccessful tenure with the Lions was when he once wondered aloud to reporters after a loss, "What does a coach have to do around here to get fired?"

After the CFL stint, Rogers was named head coach of the Arkansas Miners of the fledgling Professional Spring Football League.