From NFL Long Shot to Starting Cornerback: Qwantez Stiggers' Inspiring Journey
Qwantez Stiggers' journey from B.E.S.T. Academy to the NFL is an inspiring tale of perseverance and faith. Despite not playing college football due to grief over his father's death, Stiggers joined Fan Controlled Football and eventually caught the attention of the CFL's Toronto Argonauts, where he was named the most outstanding rookie in 2023. Drafted in the fifth round (176th overall) by the New York Jets in 2024, Stiggers played 14 games, with one start, last season.
Key Takeaways:
- Stiggers played 215 special-teams snaps (61% of the team's total) and 49 defensive snaps last season, making it a learning experience for the rookie cornerback.
- Despite not playing college football, Stiggers' journey took him to the CFL, where he was named the most outstanding rookie in 2023, and then to the East-West Shrine Bowl as an invitee.
- Stiggers started against the Jacksonville Jaguars on December 15, making four tackles, and credits his ability to prepare and be accountable for his success.
- The Jets' new coaching staff, led by Aaron Glenn, preaches accountability, being on time, and doing one's job, with Stiggers working hard to impress them.
- Stiggers' goal this year is to make the 53-man roster and get more burn (playing time) to set himself and his family up for potentially reaching his second contract.
- Stiggers has a built-in support system with his wife, Cheyenne, and their two children, Legend (3) and Leilani (6 months), as well as his parents, who attend most of the Jets' home games.
Statistics:
- 215 special-teams snaps (61% of the team's total)
- 49 defensive snaps
- 1 start against the Jacksonville Jaguars on December 15
- 4 tackles in the game
- 14 games played last season
Sources:
- The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
- New York Jets
- Qwantez Stiggers