Each year we hear awesome stories from draft prospects hopeful to hear their name called in the NFL Draft. In this year’s draft, perhaps the most incredible story of resilience and pursuing a dream comes from CFL cornerback prospect Quantez Stiggers, who heard his name called on Day 3 of the draft on Saturday.
Stiggers made the tough decision to not attend college despite receiving multiple collegiate offers due to the sudden death of his father. Instead, he opted to join the Facebook Fan Controlled Football League in 2022.
He then tried out for a roster spot for the Toronto Argonauts of the CFL and not only made the team but thrived in his rookie season with the team.
In 15 CFL games, Stiggers recorded 53 defensive tackles, three special teams tackles, and five interceptions, which was enough for him to be named the CFL Rookie of the Year.
From there, Stiggers attended several pre-draft events like the East-West Shrine Bowl in hopes of drawing the attention of NFL teams. And he did just that, as the New York Jets opted to take a chance on him with the No.176 pick at the end of the fifth round.
CFL superstar DB Quantez Stiggers to the #Jets — one of the best stories in the draft!
The Atlanta native starred for the @TorontoArgos last season after competing in a semi-pro 7-7 indoor league. https://t.co/vkHmjqcYGT pic.twitter.com/wgOqAcALxd
— Jordan Schultz (@Schultz_Report) April 27, 2024
The selection from the Jets marks the first time since 1999 that a CFL player has been selected in the NFL Draft.
One thing that will be interesting to monitor is that Stiggers is still under contract with the Argonauts. However, early reports suggest that they will let him pursue the NFL opportunity.
