Qwan’tez Stiggers, a standout cornerback from the CFL, has defied expectations by being drafted into the NFL without any college football experience. On Saturday, the New York Jets chose Stiggers as the 176th overall pick in the fifth round of the NFL draft.
In a video call with reporters, Stiggers expressed gratitude for being selected by the Jets, stating, “I might not have gone the round I wanted to go in, but at the end of the day, I love that the Jets selected me.” He then delivered a message to the teams that passed on him, asserting, “I’m going to make them pay. They’re going to have to pay all year.”
Stiggers’ journey to the NFL was marked by personal tragedy and perseverance. Following the death of his father in a car accident in September 2020, Stiggers battled depression and dropped out of college. Despite the challenges, he remained focused on improving his mental health and supporting his family.
Stiggers, hailing from the Atlanta area, was raised in a large family of 13 children. During his time at a small high school, he showcased his athleticism by participating in various sports, with football being his standout talent. Excelling in multiple positions, he ultimately specialized as a cornerback. Stiggers had plans to further his football career at Division II Lane College, an HBCU located in Jackson, Tennessee but faced setbacks due to the COVID-19 pandemic and his father’s passing.
Stiggers made the difficult decision to withdraw from school to support his family financially, taking on multiple jobs to ensure they had food on the table. Reflecting on this period, he remarked, “It just kind of put my dreams on hold.”
However, Stiggers’ mother, Kwanna, was determined to see her son chase his football dreams. Through an online advertisement, she discovered the Fan Controlled League, an indoor football league held at Atlanta’s Pullman Yards. So she signed up her son to play.
Upon his mother’s suggestion, Stiggers embraced the opportunity and participated in tryouts for the Fan Controlled League. His performance in the league caught the attention of CFL teams, leading to a successful stint with the Toronto Argonauts.
Stiggers expressed his gratitude, stating, “I thank God and I thank my mom for signing me up.” He added with determination, “And the sky … I’m going beyond the sky now.”
During his time in the CFL, Stiggers became a starter and was named the league’s most outstanding rookie, earning recognition as a CFL East All-Star. His standout play also garnered interest from NFL teams, including the New York Jets.
Jets general manager Joe Douglas praised Stiggers’ persistence and attitude throughout his journey. Despite never playing college football, Stiggers impressed during the East-West Shrine Bowl, solidifying his place on the Jets’ draft board.
Douglas said Stiggers’ performance in the East-West Shrine Bowl put him squarely on their draft board. “He had a really good week there and opened up eyes there,” Douglas said. “He’s a unique guy. He’s a special guy.”
Following a private workout and visit to the Jets’ facility, Stiggers received the call on draft day, fulfilling his NFL dream.
Stiggers’ story serves as a testament to resilience and determination in the face of adversity. As he prepares to embark on his NFL career, Stiggers remains grateful for the support of his family and loved ones.
“It’s just believing in those who believe in you,” he said. “I say that because my mom, my fiancée and then … everybody in my family really believed in me and helped push me to get back in football.”
