- Rogers becomes the third Defender to sign with an NFL Team since conclusion of 2026 UFL season
WASHINGTON, D.C. (August 3, 2026) – DC Defenders defensive end Casey Rogers (6-4, 294, Oregon) has signed with the NFL's New England Patriots, the team announced today.
Rogers becomes the third member of the 2026 DC Defenders to earn an NFL contract since the conclusion of the UFL season, joining defensive end Devonnsha Maxwell (Atlanta) and wide receiver Erik Ezukanma (Philadelphia).
Rogers appeared in all 10 regular-season games, primarily as a reserve, recording 21 tackles, 2.0 tackles for loss, 1.5 sacks, and two pass breakups. He also saw action in both postseason contests, adding a tackle, 1.0 tackle for loss, and two pass breakups.
The Syracuse, NY native, began his professional career by signing with the New York Giants as an undrafted free agent following the 2024 NFL Draft. During his time with the Giants, he earned a promotion to the active roster, finished the 2024 season with the organization, and signed a reserve/future contract ahead of the 2025 campaign.
In 2025, Rogers continued his NFL journey with the Buffalo Bills before returning to the Giants later that season.
The DC Defenders retain the UFL rights to Rogers should he return to the United Football League.