Stiggers’ inspirational journey continues as he pursues his NFL dream through a winding path.
The Buffalo Bills recently hosted cornerback Qwan’tez Stiggers for a top-30 pre-draft visit, as reported by Aaron Wilson. Stiggers, formerly a cornerback for the Toronto Argonauts in the Canadian Football League (CFL), boasts a unique football journey as he didn’t play college football. Despite his unconventional path, Stiggers has emerged as one of the standout stories in this year’s draft cycle.
Raised with a love for football, Stiggers initially played as a kicker due to his small stature. However, he later transitioned to playing as a defensive back in high school, where he began to showcase his potential. After gaining attention at a small school, Stiggers enrolled at Division II Lane College in 2020, a year marked by personal tragedy with his father’s fatal car accident.
Football took a backseat as Stiggers coped with his loss by focusing on other jobs like food delivery and truck washing. However, he eventually returned to the sport, finding solace and purpose in it once again. Stints in Fan Controlled Football (FCF) and the CFL followed, culminating in a successful 2023 CFL season where Stiggers earned multiple accolades.
Despite not receiving an invite to the NFL Scouting Combine, Stiggers showcased his abilities at a private pro day attended by representatives from 29 NFL teams. His impressive performance, including a 4.47 40-yard dash and a 36.5” vertical jump, left a lasting impression.
In considering Stiggers’ fit with the Buffalo Bills, his underdog story aligns with the team’s ethos under head coach Sean McDermott. With the Bills in need of cornerback help, Stiggers could offer a potential late-round gem. While he may lack the conventional pedigree of other prospects, his determination and character make him a compelling option for Buffalo. As the draft approaches, it’s not a matter of if the Bills are interested in Stiggers, but when and by whom he’ll be selected.