New York Jets cornerback Qwan'tez Stiggers was rushed to the hospital after losing consciousness briefly during a joint training session with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers on Tuesday. Jets coach Aaron Glenn reported that the 24-year-old player was conscious and able to converse before being placed on a stretcher for further evaluation, although there was no immediate update on his condition. Glenn expressed relief that Stiggers was doing well, stating, 'He was able to talk, and I want to make sure I visit him after this to ensure everything is fine.' The incident occurred during special-teams drills when Stiggers walked to the sideline and collapsed.
Glenn commended the medical staff for their prompt response, saying, 'Our guys did an excellent job, just like most medical staffs around the league, and they took the necessary steps to ensure we do everything we can in situations like that.' The scene was tense, with several Jets teammates kneeling and forming a prayer circle near the sideline. After several minutes, Stiggers was loaded into an ambulance with an IV and taken to the hospital as fans in the area applauded in support. Jets running back Breece Hall described the moment as 'very sad, very emotional,' adding, 'You get on your knee and say a prayer for him and hope he's okay.' Defensive tackle Harrison Phillips noted that the team had been informed that Stiggers' condition was improving.
Practice resumed after a 10-minute halt while Stiggers received medical attention. Earlier in the practice, Stiggers was involved in a heated moment when his helmet was thrown down the field by a Buccaneers player after a scuffle between players from both teams. Stiggers, who is entering his third season with the Jets, was a fifth-round draft pick in 2024 and has played 29 games, including five starts, with 35 tackles, two fumble recoveries, and three passes defended.
He is also a key special teams player for the Jets.