Veteran QB Teddy Bridgewater Joins Buccaneers Amid Injury Concerns

As of August 5th, 2025, the Tampa Bay Buccaneers are expected to sign veteran quarterback Teddy Bridgewater. This move comes as the team faces injury concerns at the quarterback position.

Bridgewater, who was most recently with the Detroit Lions in 2023 and 2024, has been out of the NFL for the past year. During that time, he was coaching at Miami Northwestern high school, leading the team to a championship. However, Bridgewater was recently suspended from his high school coaching job due to an accusation that he was providing impermissible benefits to students, such as Uber rides, meals, and recovery services.

The Buccaneers' decision to bring in Bridgewater is likely driven by the injuries to their current backup quarterbacks. Third-string QB Michael Pratt is dealing with a lower back injury, while starter Baker Mayfield recently suffered a bruised hand. Mayfield is expected to return this week, but the Buccaneers may want to add more veteran depth at the position.

There is a notable connection between Bridgewater and the Buccaneers' coaching staff. Bridgewater spent time with the Miami Dolphins in 2022, where current Buccaneers offensive coordinator Josh Grizzard was a quality control assistant. This prior experience with Bridgewater has likely contributed to the Buccaneers' interest in signing him.

While Bridgewater is not yet officially signed, the Buccaneers clearly believe he can provide valuable depth and experience to their quarterback room during training camp and potentially beyond.