Teddy Bridgewater Steps Away from Football During Lions Training Camp
Veteran NFL quarterback Teddy Bridgewater has decided to retire once more, according to Detroit Lions head coach Dan Campbell. This announcement was made on Sunday as Bridgewater stepped away from his role, competing to be Jared Goff’s backup. The Lions have placed him on the reserve/retired list before their Sunday practice commenced.
Bridgewater had previously retired after the 2023 season but rejoined the Lions for the 2024 season. Campbell believes that Bridgewater’s decision to retire might be final this time. ESPN quotes Campbell stating, “I feel like this is where it’s at for sure right now. This is where it needs to be and where he felt. His biggest worry was letting us down.” Campbell emphasized the positive impact Bridgewater has had on the team.
Lions swiftly signed Josh Dobbs after Bridgewater’s announcement. Dobbs joined on a $1.425 million contract, with $475,000 guaranteed, as reported by NFL Network.
Bridgewater’s Impact and Career
Bridgewater signed with the Lions in March as an unrestricted free agent after spending time backing up Baker Mayfield with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in 2025. He was anticipated to support Goff this season. He was known for his mentorship abilities, providing support for starting quarterbacks throughout his career.
Bridgewater was a first-round pick to the Minnesota Vikings in 2014 and made a Pro Bowl appearance early in his career. In his second season, he attained an 11-5 record with 3,231 passing yards and 14 touchdowns. His career was hampered by a severe knee injury in 2016, affecting his role as a starter. Nonetheless, he continued to contribute to teams like the New Orleans Saints, Carolina Panthers, Denver Broncos, and Miami Dolphins in subsequent seasons.
Lions Shift Focus After Retirement
Following Bridgewater’s retirement, the Lions secured Josh Dobbs, familiar with Detroit from his earlier stint on the practice squad in 2022. Dobbs possesses dual-threat capabilities, differing from Goff’s pocket-passing style. Last season, Dobbs backed up Drake Maye with the New England Patriots.
If Bridgewater’s retirement stands, he leaves behind a record with 15,182 passing yards and 75 touchdowns over 83 NFL games. His record as a starter was 33-32 in 11 seasons. Lions coach Dan Campbell expressed admiration for Bridgewater’s character and professionalism, stating, “He’s going to be missed.”
Bridgewater’s impact is noted both on and off the field, highlighting his commitment and the respect he garnered from teammates and coaches throughout his NFL journey.
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