Bridgewater Returns to NFL with Detroit Lions
Teddy Bridgewater is making a comeback to the NFL, joining the Detroit Lions. The 32-year-old quarterback, who was previously with the Lions, is coming back to a league where he originally began his career as a first-round pick by the Minnesota Vikings in 2014. Over the years, Bridgewater has taken the field for multiple teams, including the New Orleans Saints, Carolina Panthers, Denver Broncos, and most recently, the Miami Dolphins.
Bridgewater's journey in the NFL has been one of resilience and determination. With 33-32 career starts, he has amassed 15,120 passing yards, 75 touchdowns, and 47 interceptions. Though his stint with the Dolphins in 2022 ended with a 0-2 record, his experience and skill set continue to make him a valuable asset. Prior to this return, Bridgewater showcased his leadership ability off the field by coaching high school football, where he led Miami Northwestern to a state championship.
Strategic Move for the Lions
The decision to bring Bridgewater back into the fold is strategic for the Lions, a team poised with strong hopes for the upcoming season. With the second-best odds of winning the Super Bowl according to Caesars Sportsbook, Detroit is not leaving any stone unturned. Lions' head coach Dan Campbell emphasized the value Bridgewater brings to the team, stating, "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."
Bridgewater joins a quarterback room led by starter Jared Goff, with Hendon Hooker and Jake Fromm also vying for roles. This depth provides insurance and flexibility, especially with the ever-present risk of injuries. Campbell addressed this concern, noting how having Bridgewater "absolutely" gives them a reliable option for the emergency third quarterback. "If something happens you've got your third ready to roll," he remarked.
Impact on the Quarterback Roster
Campbell made it clear that bringing Bridgewater on board is by no means a reflection of disappointment in Hooker. "Doesn't mean we're disappointed in Hooker," said Campbell, adding that it "does not mean that Hooker is out." The move is instead seen as an enhancement to the team’s depth chart and competitive capabilities. "It's great for our team. I think everybody in that locker room respects Teddy and what he stands for," Campbell commented.
Bridgewater himself has spoken about possibly balancing his commitments, mentioning, "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." Nevertheless, his focus is currently on his NFL role, and his presence is expected to uplift the team. As Campbell aptly put it, Bridgewater is someone "that you feel like makes everybody around them a little bit better."
Looking Forward
The Lions, fueled by this strategic addition, are setting their sights high this season. With Bridgewater lending his experience and leadership, it will be interesting to see how Detroit leverages its bolstered quarterback lineup to achieve success. Fans and analysts will be watching closely as Bridgewater, alongside Goff and the rest of the team, attempts to translate preseason potential into on-field performance.
As the NFL season unfolds, the Lions' ambitions, led by a strengthened quarterback roster, signal a promising future. The upcoming games will test Bridgewater’s mettle as he returns to the NFL stage, determined to leave a mark and help lead Detroit to new heights.