Casey Rogers is bringing a sense of nostalgia to his new chapter with the Buffalo Bills as he returns to his roots in upstate New York. Claimed by the Bills off waivers after his release by the New York Giants, the defensive tackle is coming home to familiar grounds.

A Syracuse native, Rogers was a star athlete at Westhill High School, excelling both in football and lacrosse. His initial path was set for a lacrosse career at Syracuse University, following in the footsteps of his father, a coach at the university.

However, Rogers pivoted to football, showcasing his talent first at Nebraska, then Oregon.

At 26, Rogers finds himself as the latest addition to a rethought Buffalo defensive front. He joins a roster bolstered by Larry Ogunjobi from free agency and rookies T.J.

Sanders and Deonte Walker, chosen in the NFL Draft’s second and fourth rounds respectively. Devin Brandt-Epps, an undrafted free agent, rounds out the Bills’ defensive tackle group.

Rogers’ excitement about joining Buffalo was palpable as he took to social media, posting, “Let’s go Buffalooooooooo,” signaling his enthusiasm to Bills Mafia.

Despite going undrafted in 2024, Rogers made a name for himself, breaking into the Giants’ lineup from the practice squad. His NFL debut was memorable not just for the occasion, but for blocking a 60-yard field goal attempt against the New Orleans Saints in Week 14—a feat no other rookie achieved that season. Across his brief stint, he posted 33 defensive snaps and played nine on special teams across two games.

Rogers’ collegiate career was marked by 46 appearances, where he amassed 95 tackles, 12 tackles for loss, three sacks, and forced and recovered a fumble. Clearly, his college resume hints at the potential he could bring to the Bills.

His athletic lineage is significant, too. Casey’s father, Lelan Rogers, stands as a stalwart in the lacrosse community, currently heading the men’s lacrosse program at SUNY Cortland.

Lelan’s legacy at Syracuse University includes decades of coaching, helping the Orange to consecutive national championships in 2008 and 2009. As a Division III wrestling victor at St.

Lawrence University before transferring to Syracuse, Lelan capped his wrestling career as the team captain and was part of Syracuse’s lacrosse squad that reached the 1987 Final Four.

This move to Buffalo isn’t just a professional opportunity for Rogers; it’s a homecoming steeped in family legacy and community connections. For the Bills, it’s another piece in their puzzle of constructing a formidable defensive front. As Rogers embarks on this new chapter, there’s a sense of anticipation to see how his journey will unfold back in his hometown.