Former Lions QB Teddy Bridgewater is back in the NFL, signing one-year deal with Buccaneers

Teddy Bridgewater is heading back to the NFL but not with the Detroit Lions this time.

Now 32, the seasoned quarterback is lacing up once more, reportedly agreeing to a one-year deal with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, per multiple sources. After spending portions of the last two seasons in Detroit, Bridgewater is set to bring some experienced insurance to the Bucs' quarterback room.

Baker Mayfield remains the clear-cut starter, with Kyle Trask still holding onto the No. 2 spot on the depth chart. Bridgewater’s role will likely be that of a seasoned mentor and emergency option, adding veteran stability behind the scenes for Tampa Bay.

Bridgewater is officially back in the NFL. Just weeks after stepping down as head coach of his alma mater, Miami Northwestern High School, the 32-year-old quarterback has signed a one-year deal with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, per reports.

Bridgewater, who's suited up for six teams before this stop, had briefly retired after backing up Jared Goff in Detroit last season. He led Miami Northwestern to a state championship in his first year as head coach, then made a surprise cameo with the Lions in the playoffs when Goff went down in the Divisional Round.

This summer, Bridgewater returned to the sidelines in Miami but was suspended over allegations tied to asking for outside donations to support team expenses. Now, just three weeks later, he’s found his way back to the NFL.

Tampa brings him in as much-needed depth behind Baker Mayfield, who recently missed time with a hand injury. With Michael Pratt sidelined (back), and Kyle Trask and rookie Connor Bazelak the only healthy QBs in camp, Bridgewater offers instant veteran security.

After finishing 10–7 in 2024, the Bucs aim to secure their fifth consecutive NFC South title in 2025. They will host Titans at Raymond James Stadium this week to launch their preseason campaign.