Stiggers’ dual role on special teams and now on defense has impressed ST coordinator Chris Banjo, who has used Stiggers on 283 (70%) ST snaps up in total this season.
“It’s been amazing,” Banjo said. “He’s meant a lot to us as a group. In regards to what he does, what he brings on the field and off the field, how he’s held himself accountable, how he holds other guys accountable. And it’s really exciting to see him get his opportunity on the defensive side of the ball. And I’ve said this as a coach, I know, obviously I’m a teams’ coach, but I want all of our guys in our room to sign $100 million contracts, play in a position that they probably went to bed dreaming about since they were little, catching touchdowns or catching interceptions.
“At the same time, having a service mindset of it being bigger than you and I think he’s really embodied that, because obviously he’s getting an opportunity on the defensive side of the ball, but he’s just as locked in on specials’ meetings, still giving guys pointers, still asking questions that not only make him better, but the group better. So he’s meant a lot, and he, I think he’s doing it the right way.”
As Stiggers gets set to make his third start at cornerback, he’s trying to relish his opportunity while also keeping a level head. He was solid against the Saints, making 5 tackles, logging 2 passes defended and of course the early fumble recovery.
“You know, since Week 1, it’s just been falling into place,” said Stiggers, who will turn 24 on Jan. 8. “Doing whatever on the team, whether that’s special teams, the defense. I finally get my shot, and I’m going to take the best advantage of my opportunities.”
He added: “I mean, really, like the way I look at it, you watch film. You can get certain keys, but I feel like once you’re out there, you really just got to win one-on-one. And that’s what I’m trying to do on a weekly basis, and I’m going to continue to do it, and I’m trying to do it this week, too.”