The Tampa Bay Buccaneers have signed veteran quarterback Teddy Bridgewater to a one-year deal, injecting much-needed depth and leadership behind starter Baker Mayfield. This move comes as a strategic response to injuries and uncertainty at quarterback.
Bridgewater, 32, brings a wealth of NFL experience, having started games for six different teams over a decade and earning a Pro Bowl nod in 2015 with the Vikings. Though he hasn’t thrown a regular-season pass since 2022 and briefly retired after the 2023 season, he returned for a backup role with Detroit late last year.
He recently stepped away from a high school coaching role—where he led his alma mater, Miami Northwestern, to a state championship—to rejoin the NFL. His departure followed a suspension for providing impermissible benefits to players, which he says he did out of care for their safety and wellbeing.
Bucs coach Todd Bowles emphasized Bridgewater’s ability to bring stability to an inexperienced QB room. Backup Michael Pratt is sidelined with a back injury, while Kyle Trask and rookie Connor Bazelak offer limited backup experience behind Mayfield
Betting Angle
Bridgewater’s addition could impact several betting fronts:
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Backup QB prop bets—he’s the most seasoned option behind Mayfield.
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QB performance odds—Mayfield’s health and performance risk may shift expectations.
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Game-day lines and spreads—the QB room’s depth may influence early-season betting lines, especially against strong defensive opponents.
Looking Ahead
While Bridgewater is unlikely to compete for the starting job barring an injury to Mayfield, his signing is a clear signal from Tampa Bay that they value proven experience in a long and physically demanding NFL season. Bridgewater’s calm presence, football IQ, and adaptability could prove crucial in mentoring young quarterbacks and stabilizing the offense in high-pressure moments.
The Buccaneers face a challenging early schedule that includes matchups against aggressive pass-rush units like the Eagles, 49ers, and Saints. Having a veteran like Bridgewater ready to step in at a moment’s notice could be the difference between staying competitive in the NFC South race and falling behind.
For fans, the signing also taps into a sense of nostalgia—Bridgewater’s reputation as one of the league’s most respected and resilient players has made him a fan favorite wherever he’s gone. His comeback story, from a devastating knee injury early in his career to a respected veteran leader, is a testament to perseverance in a league where careers can change in an instant.
