Teddy Bridgewater, the former quarterback for the University of Louisville, is making a comeback in the NFL after a brief retirement. Detroit Lions head coach Dan Campbell announced that Bridgewater has signed with the team, as initially reported by the NFL Network.
This marks Bridgewater’s second time with the Lions; he previously joined the team as a backup to Jared Goff during the 2023 season before announcing his retirement to focus on high school coaching at Miami Northwestern, his former school. In his inaugural year as a coach, Bridgewater guided his team to an impressive 12-2 record, culminating in a dominant 41-0 victory in the Class 3A state championship.
Campbell expressed the team’s enthusiasm about Bridgewater’s return, praising his experience and the respect he holds within the locker room. “It’s great for our team. I think everybody in that locker room respects Teddy and what he stands for and the type of human being he is, but also the type of player,” Campbell stated.
Bridgewater indicated his potential return to the NFL in a recent interview, sharing his plans for a seamless transition between coaching and professional football. “My team is aware of the plan. We aimed to win a state championship, after which I would return to the league to see what happens,” he explained.
Originally drafted by the Minnesota Vikings in the first round of the 2014 NFL Draft, Bridgewater has played for six different teams throughout his career. His impact on the sport remains strong, highlighted by his recent induction into the Kentucky Sports Hall of Fame and the retirement of his No. 5 jersey at a game in October.
This return to the NFL not only showcases Bridgewater’s dedication to football but also serves as a testament to his ability to inspire both in the professional arena and at the high school level. Fans and teammates alike are eager to see how his vast experience will contribute to the Lions’ success in the coming season.