The Seattle Seahawks have a notable history of acquiring exceptional talent from the Canadian Football League (CFL), particularly All-Star cornerbacks. This time, they might be looking to continue that trend by considering a standout prospect during the upcoming NFL Draft. Their latest interest revolves around Qwan’tez Stiggers, who is reportedly scheduled for an official 30 visit with the team. He has already met with several other NFL teams, primarily from the American Football Conference (AFC), showcasing his growing reputation and potential in the league.

Qwan’tez Stiggers is generating buzz as a unique NFL draft prospect due to his remarkable journey. Unlike many of his peers, he has never played a down of college football. His unconventional path to the NFL Draft is deeply intertwined with personal tragedy, which has shaped his character and determination. This background story adds a compelling narrative to his athletic abilities, making him an intriguing candidate for NFL teams looking for resilience and talent.

Stiggers shared an emotional account of his life, revealing the impact of his father’s tragic accident on February 14, 2020. His father’s car flipped multiple times, leading to a devastating loss that Stiggers faced shortly after graduating high school in May 2020. He attended Lane College in Tennessee on a scholarship, but the subsequent loss of his father on September 19, 2020, plunged him into a period of deep grief. For months, he struggled to cope with his emotions and isolate himself from the world, highlighting the mental strength he had to muster to overcome such challenges.

“So, February 14, 2020, my dad was involved in a single-car accident. His car flipped 13 times. I graduated in May 2020. That’s when I went to Lane College in Tennessee on a scholarship. Then my dad passed on September 19, 2020. I went through a depressing time. Didn’t come out of the house for several months,” Stiggers explained.

“Then my mom finally signed me up for this league, Fan Controlled Football. I went out there, had a blast, was balling and then that’s when (former Argos offensive coordinator) John Jenkins put the word from me up here.”

In his debut season in the CFL with the Toronto Argonauts, Stiggers showcased his remarkable skills as a cornerback. He not only led his team with an impressive five interceptions but also earned the prestigious title of the league’s Most Outstanding Rookie. His outstanding performance on the field also garnered him recognition as an All-Star in the East division, solidifying his status as a rising star in professional football. This recognition speaks volumes about his abilities and potential as he transitions to the NFL.

Now 22 years old, Stiggers stands at 5 feet 11 inches tall and weighs just under 205 pounds, with an arm length of 30.5 inches. At his pro day, he recorded an impressive 4.45-second 40-yard dash, a 36.5-inch vertical leap, a 7.03-second 3-cone drill, and a broad jump of 10 feet 8 inches. These impressive athletic metrics showcase his physical capabilities and readiness for the demands of the NFL. According to Dane Brugler from The Athletic, Stiggers possesses a unique combination of talent and potential that could make him a valuable asset for any team.

A one-year starter within the CFL, Stiggers played mostly left cornerback within the Toronto Argonauts’ scheme. With just one year of playing experience since high school, he has taken a very unique journey to the doorstep of the NFL and is trying to become the first CFL player with zero college experience drafted. A good-sized athlete, Stiggers has instinctive body coordination and feel in coverage, which allows him to stay in phase and play through the hands of receivers. His trigger is a little inconsistent as he’s developing his sense for route progressions, and carrying deep speed in the NFL will create growing pains. Overall, Stiggers is understandably raw in several areas due to his lack of experience, but he is an alert ball denier with the size, athleticism, and mentality that can be developed. He is worth a draft pick, though it might take a patient coaching staff to get him NFL-ready.

GRADE: sixth Round

Stiggers could be a potential Day 3 option for the Seahawks, particularly given the current lack of long-term depth at his position under contract. Fans and analysts alike will soon learn the outcome of his journey, which has been filled with challenges and triumphs. His compelling backstory and unorthodox path to the NFL Draft make him a player worth rooting for as he aims to achieve his dreams. To catch a glimpse of his skills, take a look at his CFL highlights below: