Jets halt training as Stiggers hospitalised after practice collapse
Head coach Aaron Glenn confirms player is conscious and stable, though specific medical details remain withheld as practice resumes.
New York Jets cornerback Qwantez Stiggers was transported to a hospital by ambulance after collapsing during a joint practice with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers on Tuesday. The 24-year-old briefly lost consciousness during special-teams drills but regained awareness and was able to speak on the field before being stretchered away.
Jets head coach Aaron Glenn provided a positive update regarding the player's condition, stating that Stiggers was doing okay. Glenn noted that medical staff administered an intravenous line on the field before the player was loaded into an ambulance for further examination. While no immediate diagnosis was released, Glenn expressed confidence in the medical team's handling of the situation.
The incident caused a temporary halt in practice for more than 10 minutes. Teammates, including running back Breece Hall and defensive tackle Harrison Phillips, reacted emotionally to the scene, with some forming a prayer circle. Hall described the moment as "very sad, very emotional," while Phillips reported that information shared with the team indicated things were "on the up and up."
Prior to the collapse, Stiggers was involved in a scuffle with Buccaneers players, during which his helmet was flung down the field. The incident occurred during a joint training camp session, a setting that often sees heightened physical contact between players from different organisations.
Stiggers is entering his third season with the Jets after being selected in the fifth round of the 2024 NFL Draft. He was the first player drafted directly from the Canadian Football League since 1999, having played for the Toronto Argonauts without prior college football experience. In 29 games with New York, he has recorded 35 tackles, two fumble recoveries, and three passes defended.
Practice resumed following the medical intervention. Fans seated near the sideline clapped in support as Stiggers was transported away. The long-term impact on Stiggers' availability for upcoming games remains unknown.
