Teddy Bridgewater is back in the NFL.
The veteran quarterback has signed a one-year deal with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers after passing a physical during his Tuesday visit. With starter Baker Mayfield recovering from a hand contusion and rookie Michael Pratt sidelined with a back injury, the Bucs were in need of experience, and Bridgewater, a 12-year pro with 65 career starts, fits the bill.
Buccaneers signing QB Teddy Bridgewater to one-year deal. (via @RapSheet) pic.twitter.com/kHbikor7zY
— NFL (@NFL) August 5, 2025
Bridgewater Reunites With Familiar Faces in Tampa
Bridgewater, 32, last played for the Detroit Lions in 2024 but didn’t appear in a regular-season game. He did complete a single pass in the playoffs and spent most of the season coaching high school football in Miami, where he led Miami Northwestern to a state title.
His return to coaching was derailed by a suspension for providing players with meals and rides, prompting his NFL comeback. In Tampa, Bridgewater reunites with offensive coordinator Josh Grizzard and defensive line coach Charlie Strong, both of whom he’s worked with before.
Veteran QB Teddy Bridgewater is visiting Tampa today, and is expected to sign with the Buccaneers, per sources.
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) August 5, 2025
The Buccaneers will be Bridgewater’s 8th NFL team, and his third NFC South team to go along with the Saints and Panthers. pic.twitter.com/nOEgJOx2xh
Bucs QB Room Gets Much-Needed Stability
With Mayfield set as the starter and Kyle Trask holding the backup role, at least for now, Bridgewater offers a steady third option should injury strike. Trask has appeared in just seven games since being drafted in 2021 and has attempted only 11 passes in his career. Head coach Todd Bowles praised Bridgewater’s leadership and experience, calling him a “pro’s pro” who can help guide the room and mentor younger players like Connor Bazelak and Pratt.
Photo Credit: Brian Fluharty-Imagn Images
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