Could Lions Re-Sign Bridgewater After High School Coaching Suspension?

MIAMI & DETROIT, July 14, 2025 – Former NFL quarterback Teddy Bridgewater, who briefly returned to the Detroit Lions as a backup in late 2024, has been suspended from his head coaching position at Miami Northwestern High School amid allegations he provided impermissible benefits—including Uber rides, catered meals, recovery services—to players .

The 32‑year‑old star, who led Miami Northwestern to a Class 3A state title in 2024, confirmed the suspension in a social media post and said he “self‑reported” the total weekly benefits, which he estimated at around  $4,200 ($700 Uber +  $2,200 meals +  $1,300 recovery)  . The Florida High School Athletic Association is currently investigating the matter  .

Bridgewater has maintained his commitment to the school, vowing to continue advising the team—even as a volunteer from the bleachers if necessary  .

What’s Next?

NFL optics & potential Lions return
Bridgewater’s actions demonstrate his deep investment in player welfare and leadership—qualities Detroit may still value. He joined the Lions in December as a veteran backup behind Jared Goff, making a brief playoff appearance (completing one pass for 3 yards in a divisional loss)  . Whether Detroit might consider bringing him back in 2026 depends on offseason plans and quarterback depth.

Public reaction
The suspension has drawn widespread fan and media backlash, with many praising Bridgewater’s generosity and calling the ruling an overreach in youth‑sports governance  .

Bridgewater’s perspective
His statement emphasized self‑suspension: “if I’m suspended … I’m free to go to another school … but I’m NOT GOING ANYWHERE … I will volunteer from the bleachers”  .



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Could Detroit Make a Move?

Bridgewater brings veteran leadership, community impact, and versatility. If the Lions face quarterback depth concerns in 2026, his mentorship could be invaluable. Yet much depends on how the FHSAA investigation unfolds and how both Bridgewater’s high‑school suspension—or any fallout—affects his NFL reputation.

Bridgewater has made clear he has not stepped away from football. Whether Detroit might reach out again remains an intriguing possibility.