Ex-Lions QB Makes a Big Bet on Himself This Offseason

Former Detroit Lions quarterback Teddy Bridgewater is taking a bold step this offseason, betting on himself in a big way. After spending the 2023 season as Jared Goff’s backup in Detroit, Bridgewater has decided to walk away from a traditional NFL role in favor of a fresh opportunity—coaching.

Rather than pursuing another contract as a backup QB, the 31-year-old has accepted a position as the head coach at his alma mater, Miami Northwestern High School in Florida. It’s a surprising move, given that Bridgewater likely could have remained in the league as a veteran backup. However, he’s choosing to invest in his future outside of playing, setting himself up for a long-term career in football beyond the field.

This decision is a gamble, as most quarterbacks his age would still be looking for opportunities to stay in the NFL. But for Bridgewater, coaching isn’t just a fallback plan—it’s a passion. He has long expressed a desire to give back to his community and help develop young players, and this move shows he’s fully committing to that vision.

Throughout his nine-year career, Bridgewater played for the Vikings, Saints, Panthers, Broncos, Dolphins, and Lions, earning a reputation as one of the most reliable and well-respected backup quarterbacks in the league. Now, instead of waiting for another short-term NFL contract, he’s taking control of his own future.

Will this bet on himself pay off? Only time will tell, but one thing is clear: Bridgewater isn’t afraid to take a risk in pursuit of something bigger than football.