TLDR: Will Rogers, a record-setting quarterback from Mississippi State, has begun a new chapter of his football career with the University of Washington Huskies. After initially committing to the program in December, Rogers faced uncertainty when former coaches Kalen DeBoer and Ryan Grubb departed. Deciding to re-evaluate his options, he entered the transfer portal after the firing of MSU coach Zach Arnett. On January 16, Rogers’ future was solidified following a meeting with new UW coach Jedd Fisch. Impressed by Fisch’s vision for the team and offensive strategy, Rogers recommitted to Washington. He joins two incoming freshman quarterbacks, Demond Williams Jr. and Dermaricus Davis, as they prepare to make an impact in the upcoming seasons. Rogers, with his extensive experience and impressive accolades, hopes to bring success to the Huskies in his newest football endeavor.

On Saturday, football workouts took a backseat as Will Rogers, formerly a standout quarterback for Mississippi State, joined his new teammates from the University of Washington for a public event. Positioned under a portable green canopy, he wore a distinct black hoodie featuring a large purple ‘W’, alongside fellow player Thaddeus Dixon. This visit to University Village marks the athlete’s first steps in his journey of becoming accustomed to life in the captivating Pacific Northwest.

Rogers, who boasts the record for the most completions by a quarterback in the Southeastern Conference with 1,301 to his name, vowed to bring his skills to the Huskies back in December. However, his transfer journey was anything but straightforward. Initially, he chose to join forces with UW under the guidance of coach Kalen DeBoer and offensive coordinator Ryan Grubb. Their departures, first to Alabama and then to the Seattle Seahawks, resulted in Rogers reconsidering his prospects.

Upon reflection, Rogers expressed uncertainty about his future without the leadership he had originally committed to. “Obviously when coach DeBoer left and coach Grubb left, I really didn’t know what to expect and what my next step was going to be,” Rogers commented. He confronted this turning point in his career head-on, re-entering the transfer portal in light of changing circumstances at Mississippi State and the unfolding changes at Washington.

A significant meeting with UW’s head coach Jedd Fisch on January 16 laid the groundwork for Rogers’ renewed commitment. Fisch assured Rogers of a transformative role within the team—one reminiscent of an NFL quarterback, which was the pivotal discussion that ultimately swayed Rogers’ decision to remain. “I’m really excited about what coach Fisch has to offer,” Rogers stated, noting the enthusiasm and commitment demonstrated by his new teammates.

Rogers’ transition to UW also coincides with the arrival of two promising freshman quarterbacks, Demond Williams Jr. and Dermaricus Davis. Despite joining the Huskies amidst a whirlwind of coaching changes, Rogers remains steadfast, prepared to leverage his experience and skills to spearhead a new era of Husky football excellence. As the team embarks on the 2024 season, Rogers stands ready to lead, fueled by his past achievements and a drive to succeed in his new athletic home.