In 2022, Bridgewater showed he could still have a live arm at times when the situation called for it. He filled in for the team while Tua Tagovailoa was placed in concussion protocol and made some splash plays.
The Lions will be hoping they don’t have to use Teddy Bridgewater much in 2023 if they are being honest. If disaster can’t be avoided, the way that this team is built is the type to support Bridgewater best. The drafting of Jahmyr Gibbs paired with David Montgomery tells that they know they will be a team to utilize the run when they can. Making that position a priority is not one that many teams do, but for the gritty style and approach this team has, this all fits together perfectly.
Last year, Jared Goff showcased his capability to lead as the starting quarterback for the Detroit Lions. Yet, in the unpredictable realm of the NFL, surprises are a given. Demonstrating foresight, Brad Holmes and his front office secured Teddy Bridgewater as a backup to the former No. 1 overall pick, signing him on a Monday.
Bridgewater, a former Louisville Cardinal, is no stranger to facing the Lions. However, now he must transition to donning their colors. Initially drafted by the Minnesota Vikings in 2014, Bridgewater seemed poised for a long-term role until an injury intervened. Overcoming near career-ending adversity, he has since found moderate success serving as a backup across various teams.
So, what exactly does Teddy Bridgewater bring to the Lions?
Teddy Bridgewater once held the potential to be the premier pick in the 2013 NFL Draft. Despite this, he chose to complete his Senior year before entering the league in 2014, ultimately landing with the Vikings as mentioned earlier.
Prior to his injury-dampened tenure, Bridgewater started 12 games for the Vikings, earning the accolade of Pepsi Rookie of the Year. His performance culminated in a Pro Bowl season in 2015, cut short by a brutal training camp injury that included a torn ACL and dislocated knee.
The aftermath saw him absent for the entire 2015 season and a significant part of 2016. Although he reappeared for the Vikings later that year, the team declined his fifth-year option, making him a free agent. Subsequently, Bridgewater embarked on his journey as a backup or serviceable spot-starter, journeying through teams like the New York Jets, New Orleans Saints, Carolina Panthers, and Denver Broncos, eventually landing with the Miami Dolphins last season.
In 2022, Bridgewater showcased moments of impressive arm strength when filling in for Tua Tagovailoa during concussion protocol. The Lions’ hope for 2023 is that Bridgewater’s services won’t be in high demand. However, should the worst unfold, the team’s structure complements Bridgewater’s skills. The drafting of Jahmyr Gibbs alongside David Montgomery signifies their commitment to a run-heavy strategy. This emphasis is unusual, but aligns seamlessly with the team’s gritty ethos and approach, creating a harmonious fit.