Detroit Lions head coach Dan Campbell believes returning quarterback Teddy Bridgewater will bring professionalism to the franchise ahead of their Super Bowl push.
Earlier this month, Bridgewater won his first State Championship as a high school coach of Miami (Florida) Northwestern back in his hometown. Now, the 32-year-old is back in the NFL.
Last week, he told the NFL Network of his plans to return to the NFL, saying: That’s the plan. My team knows that’s the plan. We wanted to win a state championship and then coach goes back to the league, see what happens, and then come back February in the offseason, continue coaching high school football. We’ll see how it plays out.
When asked if he’d been in touch with any particular team or had further details, Bridgewater smiled and simply claimed he was enjoying the state title. It didnt take long for Bridgewaters intentions to turn to reality – and Campbell outlined why the NFC North leaders decided to move for the former Minnesota Viking.
It just brings a level of professionalism, veteran presence, somebody thats great for our team, hes great for the position, Campbell said. This gives us somebody thats played a lot in the NFL. Were getting ready for the playoffs, and so itll be good to get him back in the fold with us.
Campbell revealed he and Bridgewater had been in contact for a while. Multiple teams reached out to inquire if Bridgewater desired to return, but he decided to come back to the Lions after also playing for the New Orleans Saints, Carolina Panthers, Denver Broncos, and the Miami Dolphins.
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Campbell also insisted that the move to add Bridgewater to the roster was not a sign that the Lions are disappointed in Hendon Hooker. The third-round pick from the 2023 NFL Draft has served as Jared Goffs backup all season, with Campbell claiming the former Tennesee quarterback has improved each week but ultimately experience is needed for the playoffs.
While the Lions may be confident in Hooker, the 26-year-old cannot be trusted if hes thrown into the fire while Detroit chase a first Super Bowl appearance in team history. The signing of Bridgewater therefore makes sense, as the veteran could step in under pressure should he get to grips with the playbook quickly.
Ultimately, the Lions will hope neither Bridgewater nor Hooker see the field with Goff leading the way. The 13-2 Lions take on the 6-9 San Francisco 49ers on Monday Night Football on Dec. 30.
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