ELF: Hamburg Sea Devils re-sign D1 cornerback Justin Rogers

| American Football | 12/19/2021

The Hamburg Sea Devils of the European League of Football continue to make moves this off-season as they’ve brought back defensive back Justin Rogers.

For Rogers returning to Hamburg felt like the right move after enjoying his time there in 2021:

“The city of Hamburg is my ‘home away from home.’ I am still indebted to the city and I plan to do my part to bring the trophy to Hamburg. The championship is my goal,”

The 5’11” 195-pound defender from Los Angeles, California was a key part of the Sea Devils defense making 42 tackles, five tackles for a loss, five interceptions, and one fumble recovery. On special teams, the 23-year-old was one of the league’s best return men taking back three punt returns for scores along with one kick return touchdown.

Hamburg defensive coordinator Kendral Ellison is excited to have Rogers back on his defense:

 “Justin’s ability to cover anyone and impact on special teams played a huge part in our success last season. He is a true game-changer and arguably one of the most impactful and dynamic playmakers in the European League of Football. Defensively he can take away one side of the field and on special teams, he can break a game wide open with his return ability. Teams are reluctant to throw at him and kick to him. As good as the player that he is, he’s an even better person and teammate. He’s a huge part of the brotherhood and understands the standard. It goes without saying that I’m elated to have him back with us.”

Before coming to Europe, Rogers was a standout performer for the UTEP Miners (NCAA D1) and in 47 games over four years amassed 182 tackles and six interceptions. In his senior year alone (2019) he recorded 73 tackles which included two 10-tackle games.

Rogers joins German quarterback Salieu Ceesay as key players returning for the 2022 season. Hamburg has also added British running back Glen Toonga, American receivers Lamar Jordan II and Jean Constant,  along with offensive coordinator Kirk Heidelberg as they look to build a team worthy of making it back to the ELF championship game.

Watch Rogers NCAA highlights here:

 

Alex is a former NCAA and semi-pro American football player who is now located in London, where he works in digital marketing. His goal in writing for AFI is to stay involved with the game that has given him so much. Alex enjoys covering leagues and