Rhyan Rogers’ junior season at Middlesboro didn’t go according to plan. Looking at an increased role on both sides of the field, his season was cut extremely short. A leg injury in the opening game against Bell County left him sidelined for the year.

This season, Rogers returns for Middlesboro with not only a chance for redemption but also a new role — varsity quarterback. Being a signal caller isn’t something new for Rogers. He took snaps on junior varsity and also took over the role on varsity near the end of his sophomore season after the Jackets were plagued with injuries.

Rogers said the injury he sustained last year doesn’t bother him from a mental standpoint.

“Practicing every day and going to football camps have really helped,” said the senior quarterback. “I don’t think about it, and I have to just avoid it to be what my team needs me to be this year.”

As one of the primary leaders on the team, Rogers said his main goal for the season is to outwork everyone who lines up against them.

“I think we have a good shot at doing something that shocks everyone,” said the senior.

Rogers’ admits the transition hasn’t been a cake walk.

“I’ve had to learn a lot, knowing what everyone does and how smoothly everything has to go to be successful. It’s a big change from a freshman JV quarterback to a senior varsity quarterback,” said Rogers. “I’m completely comfortable with the role. I feel like I’ll be able to be the leader and quarterback my team needs.”

Rogers won’t be alone as he tries to help the Jackets exceed the two-win mark they had last year. Senior tight end Sebastian Wagoner, senior running back Alex Mason and a few other key skill players also return for Middlesboro.