Carlos Osorio/Associated Press
Charles Rogers, a former Detroit Lions receiver whose promising N.F.L. career was derailed by injuries and drug use, died on Monday in Fort Myers, Fla. He was 38.
The cause of death was liver failure, said his mother, Cathy Rogers.
Mr. Rogers was considered the best receiver in the 2003 N.F.L. draft and was selected by the Detroit Lions with the second overall pick.
His career stalled after he sustained two collarbone injuries in his first two seasons and began to take painkillers, to which he became addicted, Ms. Rogers said.
The Lions suspended him for substance abuse in 2005, and released him the following year, ending his career after three seasons with only 36 receptions, 440 receiving yards and four touchdowns.