Former CFL DB Qwan’tez Stiggers makes 53-man roster with New York Jets

Former CFL defensive back Qwan’tez Stiggers has made the 53-man roster with the New York Jets.

The 22-year-old started at boundary cornerback for the Toronto Argonauts in 2023 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.

Stiggers was selected in the fifth round of the 2024 NFL Draft despite not playing collegiate football before suiting up for the Argonauts, becoming the first NFL player to be drafted directly from the CFL since Jermaine Haley, who was taken in the seventh round of the 1999 NFL Draft by the Miami Dolphins.

The native of Atlanta, Ga. didn’t 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.

Stiggers made 12 defensive tackles during preseason play with the Jets.

NFL teams were required to make their final cuts on Tuesday, Aug. 27 ahead of the regular season.