Feeling good after his brief NFL return with the Lions in the playoff run, Teddy Bridgewater’s post-playing journey is hitting a speed bump—but he’s not backing down.
Bridgewater, the former Lions QB who stepped in during Goff’s playoff injury scare, traded his helmet for a clipboard at Miami Northwestern High School—his alma mater—last season. He helped lead them to a Class 3A Florida state title. But now, he’s been suspended from his coaching role. Why? Because he used personal money to help his players with Uber rides, meals, and recovery services—expenses the school says constitute “impermissible benefits” under state rules .
Bridgewater didn’t shy away from the spotlight. In a defiant Facebook post, he said he self-reported the expenses and strongly reaffirmed his commitment to the team:
> “If I’m suspended … I’m free to coach elsewhere, but I’m not going anywhere. And if it comes down to it, I’ll volunteer from the bleachers” .
Word spread fast—voices like Shannon Sharpe and Chad “Ochocinco” Johnson came to his defense, praising his character and warning that this suspension might set a dangerous precedent . Public support rolled in:
> “Bridgewater’s actions sparked widespread admiration rather than criticism” .
Meanwhile, the Florida High School Athletic Association is investigating—other schools have faced harsh penalties for similar infractions, including postseason bans and fines .
At 32, with one foot still in coaching and a heart set on impact, Bridgewater’s message is clear: he’s here to stay, even if it means coaching from the sidelines or the bleachers.
Bridgewater Keeps Coaching Amid Suspension Drama at Miami Northwestern
