The New York Jets’ star cornerback spoke about one of the team’s newest draft picks on the defensive side of the ball
Sauce Gardner is confident in one of the New York Jets’ newest additions.
In an interview with team reporter Caroline Hendershot, the star cornerback talked about what rookie Qwan’tez Stiggers could bring to the team in 2024 and in the future.
“He can add a lot. He is very talented and willing to learn, just like I was when I first came into the league. I see myself in him a little bit, in terms of the mental aspect, being vocal always, not being afraid to speak up, not being afraid of asking the older guys, the veterans, for advice/help on the playbook & life or whatever it is,” said Gardner.
It is not a surprise that Stiggers is making an impression on Gardner. During the team’s OTA and minicamp practices, the rookie was sticky in coverage and had multiple big interceptions. He looked fluid with his hips and stayed with receivers both vertically and laterally.
Combining solid on-field play with an elite mindset will only make Stiggers’s adjustment to the NFL easier. If he is as motivated as Gardner says, the rookie will find ways to improve quickly and become one of the Jets’ most important defenders of the future.
Additionally, Stiggers is in a great position due to Gardner’s willingness to help. The star cornerback has repeatedly said that he wants to teach and help the rookie adjust to the NFL, essentially becoming a mentor figure in the process. He is as good of a mentor as Stiggers could have, as Gardner has been one of the best cornerbacks in football for two straight seasons.
The Jets saw what Stiggers could bring to the table and took a chance on him in the fifth round. With a high level of work ethic and a co-sign from Gardner, New York could have its next outside cornerback duo set for the foreseeable future if everything goes swimmingly.
