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Qwan’tez Stiggers has had a remarkable journey leading up to the draft this year, and it looks like his career might be taking an even more exciting turn.
Robert Saleh commented on Saturday that after observing the 2024 fifth-round pick during training camp, he believes that Stiggers, who was found in the CFL without any college football experience, is “definitely” an NFL-caliber cornerback and they are now exploring the possibility of him becoming a starting NFL corner.
The Jets already have a strong starting duo at cornerback with Sauce Gardner and D.J. Reed, but there are opportunities for playing time in other defensive packages and on special teams. Stiggers, at 22 years old, has been turning heads in the first 10 days of training camp in Florham Park.
“We’re pleased with him, for sure,” Saleh said. “I think he’s just got great patience at the line of scrimmage. He’s very smart. Not book-smart, but just so instinctive ahead of his years with regards to route recognition and understanding concepts.
“He’s another one that we’re all looking forward to seeing against other opponents because we think he’s got a chance to be pretty damn good.”
Stiggers will have the opportunity to showcase his skills to the coaching staff in preseason games, starting with the game against the Commanders this Saturday.
Stiggers was on track to attend Division II Lane College in Tennessee in 2020, but the cancelation of his freshman season due to COVID led him to take a break from school and football to support his family after his father’s passing. His football journey eventually took him to the CFL, where he made an impact with the Toronto Argonauts last season, earning a spot in the East-West game and catching the attention of the Jets for the draft.
Selected as the third fifth-round pick (176th overall) by the Jets, Stiggers is only the third player in the common draft era to be drafted without attending college.
Reflecting on his draft experience, Stiggers mentioned that his hometown Falcons were not interested in drafting him but acknowledged that he is grateful for the opportunity with the Jets.
Stiggers, describing his first NFL experience, spoke highly of the coaching staff, training staff, teammates, and the Jets organization. He expressed excitement and gratitude for the opportunity to learn and grow alongside his mentors in the team.
As Stiggers continues to make plays in training camp, he is focused on learning and improving with the support of his teammates and coaches. He sees the Jets as a promising team and is determined to contribute to their success.
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