Teddy Bridgewater is set to make a return to the National Football League as he joins the Detroit Lions, bringing his professional journey full circle with a franchise he once suited up for in the past. The seasoned quarterback, now 32, brings a wealth of experience and poise back to the field, which Detroit head coach Dan Campbell sees as an invaluable addition to his team.
A Veteran’s Return to the Gridiron
Bridgewater’s return comes after a brief stint outside the professional sphere, where he was contributing to the sport in another capacity: coaching high school football. During this time, he successfully led Miami Northwestern to a state championship, demonstrating his leadership and football acumen off the field. Reflecting on his upcoming return to professional play, Bridgewater shared, "We'll see how these next week-and-a-half, two weeks play out. Might be signing with a team or something and then returning back to coach high school football in February."
The Lions have high hopes for the upcoming season, and Bridgewater’s presence strengthens a quarterback room that already includes Jared Goff as the starter, and emerging talents Hendon Hooker and Jake Fromm. Campbell stated, "To be able to add somebody back here that's got experience, he's stayed in shape, he's been throwing... it just brings a level of professionalism, veteran presence." This addition strategically enhances their team structure, offering a safety net with a solid option as the emergency third quarterback.
Experience Across the League
Bridgewater was initially introduced to the NFL as a first-round pick by the Minnesota Vikings in 2014. Over the years, he has donned the jerseys of the Saints, Panthers, Broncos, and Dolphins, amassing 33-32 career starts. His on-field performance is marked by 15,120 passing yards, 75 touchdowns, and 47 interceptions. However, his recent stint with the Miami Dolphins in 2022, concluded with a record of 0-2.
Despite these numbers, Bridgewater remains a respected figure in the locker room for his capability to elevate the team’s morale and performance. As Campbell articulates, "It's great for our team. I think everybody in that locker room respects Teddy and what he stands for," showcasing the intangibles that Bridgewater contributes beyond measurable statistics.
Eyeing the Super Bowl
The Lions enter the 2023 season with their eyes on a bigger prize—the Super Bowl. With the franchise holding the second-best odds of winning the championship according to Caesars Sportsbook, the pressure and anticipation build. Bridgewater’s role, though initially as a backup, could prove crucial in unexpected moments, as Campbell emphasizes, "Absolutely" gives them a solid option for the emergency third quarterback and lessens their concerns there. "If something happens you've got your third ready to roll."
Bridgewater's return isn’t just about bolstering the roster or providing a safety net; it signifies a commitment to depth and resilience, traits the Lions will need to lean on as they pursue glory. For Bridgewater, this return to Detroit is an opportunity to once again weave his experience and skill into the fabric of a team poised for success. As Campbell succinctly puts it, this is an addition "that you feel like makes everybody around them a little bit better."
As the days inch closer to the kickoff of a new NFL season, all eyes are fixed on how Bridgewater will integrate back into the team and what impact he will have. Fans and analysts alike eagerly await the potential dynamics this seasoned quarterback will bring, as the Lions aim to convert ambitions into accomplishments on the grandest stage.