The Raiders announced (via Twitter) that they have placed cornerback Carlos Rogers on the injured reserve, ending the veteran’s season. The 33-year-old hadn’t played since the end of October as he tried to recover from a knee injury. To take his place on the roster, the team promoted running back George Atkinson III to the active roster.
Rogers joined the Raiders this offseason after being cut by the 49ers, signing a one-year deal worth $2.5MM, including a $1MM signing bonus. The former Auburn standout was selected ninth-overall by Washington in the 2005 draft, where he spent six seasons with the squad. The defensive back joined San Francisco prior to the 2011 season, and he started every game during his three-year tenure.
However, following his Pro Bowl appearance in 2011, Rogers production has decreased. He ranked as Pro Football Focus’ (subscription required) sixth-best corner in the league following his first season with the Niners, but he soon fell to the middle of the pack in 2012 and 2013. In his abbreviated 2014 season with Oakland, he ranked 77th among 112 eligible cornerbacks, compiling 35 tackles and two passes defended in seven games.
Atkinson joined the Raiders this offseason after going undrafted out of Notre Dame. Steve Corkran of the Contra Costa Times expects the rookie to return kicks this weekend against the Rams (Twitter link).