Defensive back Qwan’tez Stiggers has signed his rookie deal with the New York Jets.
The 22-year-old was selected by the team in the fifth round of the 2024 NFL Draft, becoming just the fourth player in the common era to be drafted into the league with no collegiate experience.
“He’s just a real authentic guy,” general manager Joel Douglas told the team’s website. “He’s been through the rigors of life that some kids his age haven’t been through. Just with his experience, there’s been plenty of opportunities for ‘Tez to say, ‘You know what, maybe this isn’t for me. Things aren’t working out.’ But his persistence, his attitude never wavered. So, for him to be in the position that he’s in now, it’s such a great credit to him and his makeup.”
The five-foot-eleven, 204-pound defender did not attend college due to the sudden death of his father and began his career in the Fan Controlled Football League before making his way to the CFL in 2023.
The native of Atlanta, Ga. earned a starting role at boundary cornerback with the Argonauts and played 15 games, recording 53 defensive tackles, three special teams tackles, and five interceptions. He was named an East Division all-star and became the first defensive back to be named the CFL’s Most Outstanding Rookie since 1998.
Following his award-winning CFL campaign, Stiggers attended the East-West Shrine Bowl all-star game, where he impressed scouts and onlookers. The performance triggered significant NFL interest with 29 teams attending his pro day in March. He later travelled to see 13 NFL teams for official visits.
Stiggers was first able to declare for the NFL Draft in 2024 by virtue of being three years removed from high school.
