KNOXVILLE – University of Tennessee junior cornerback Dennis Rogan was on the NFL’s list of early draft entrants, meaning his college career is finished.
Rogan, a versatile defensive back and return specialist from Knoxville, would have been a key piece for new head coach Derek Dooley’s first UT defense. Generously listed at 5-foot-10, Rogan evolved into a solid defender who could play any spot in the secondary. He made decisive plays in several Volunteers’ games the past three seasons.
Former Vols head coach Lane Kiffin called Rogan “one of the most underrated players” in the Southeastern Conference.
UT junior tight end Luke Stocker also flirted with the draft but opted to return for a final season. He confirmed the news on his Twitter page.
“(Fiancee) Daine Karst and I are bleeding orange for another year. It’s official,” Stocker wrote on his page. “We couldn’t leave this town, team and coach (Derek Dooley) with the opportunity to return.”
Read Wednesday’s Times Free Press for more UT coverage.
Other contacts for Wes Rucker are www.twitter.com/wesrucker and www.facebook.com/tfpvolsbeat.