Teddy Bridgewater’s Heart Is with High School Coaching, Not NFL

TAMPA, Florida — Teddy Bridgewater, the backup quarterback for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, revealed this week that he wishes he were coaching high school football instead of participating in NFL training camp.

Bridgewater, 32, was suspended from his position as a volunteer coach at Miami Northwestern High School after he was accused of providing improper financial benefits to players. He insists his actions were well-intentioned and aimed at assisting students who needed support.

“It’s very upsetting,” Bridgewater said during a press conference. “Just knowing that you have good intentions and those good intentions will be turned against you and used against you.”

Despite making over $1 million this season, Bridgewater expresses a strong desire to return to coaching. He noted the importance of being a positive influence on young athletes, emphasizing that it’s not about the money.

“I can make a ton of money playing football,” he stated. “Coaching high school ball, I get nothing. But it’s about giving those kids a building block to go out into the real world and be productive.”

Bridgewater’s suspension stems from accusations surrounding expenses he covered out of his own pocket for players, including transportation and meals, which officials deemed “impermissible.” He later took to social media to defend himself, claiming he had self-reported the incident and that no real investigation was underway.

Even as he focuses on his role with the Buccaneers, he remains emotionally connected to his former team. “Those kids have a special place in my heart,” he said. “And I’d love to finish what I started with them.”

Currently, Bridgewater is one of four quarterbacks on the Buccaneers roster, standing behind starter Baker Mayfield. Coach Todd Bowles has acknowledged Bridgewater’s experience and ability to mentor younger players.

As the preseason progresses, it remains to be seen how Bridgewater’s journey in the NFL will unfold. However, his hopes of returning to high school coaching are clear.

“I’m hoping to get it resolved,” he said about his suspension. “And I’d love to finish what I started with them.”