Teddy Bridgewater Contract: NFL Career History & Details
Teddy Bridgewater’s NFL journey is filled with resilience, versatility, and changing quarterback contracts. He has played over a decade with seven teams. His career has seen both highs and lows, leaving a lasting impact on the league. What’s behind his career earnings and contracts? Let’s explore Teddy Bridgewater’s NFL contract history and the factors that have shaped his journey.
Key Takeaways
- Teddy Bridgewater’s NFL career has spanned 10 seasons and 7 different teams.
- His total career earnings through 2024 amount to $64,636,4551.
- Bridgewater has experienced major contract fluctuations, including a $63 million deal with the Carolina Panthers1.
- Injuries, such as a devastating knee injury in 2016, have significantly impacted his contract negotiations and playing time1.
- Bridgewater’s resilience and comeback story have contributed to his overall marketability and earnings.
Early Career and Rookie Contract with Vikings
First-Round Draft Pick Details
Teddy Bridgewater started his NFL journey with the Minnesota Vikings in 2014. He was the 32nd pick in the first round2. His success at the University of Louisville, including a Sugar Bowl win, made him a standout pick.
Minnesota Vikings Initial Contract Terms
Bridgewater’s first contract was a four-year deal worth $6.85 million. It included a $3.3 million signing bonus3. This contract set the stage for his early NFL career.
Rookie Season Performance Impact
Bridgewater’s rookie season was impressive. He was named to the PFWA All-Rookie Team and led the Vikings to a division title2. This success set the foundation for his future contracts and earnings.
Major Career Setback and Contract Implications
In 2016, Bridgewater suffered a severe knee injury. This injury significantly affected his contract value and earning potential3. Teams became more cautious in signing him.
Revival with Saints and Contract Evolution
Backup Role and Financial Terms
After the Vikings, Bridgewater joined the New Orleans Saints as a backup3. His resilience and performance led to more opportunities and higher contracts.
Performance-Based Earnings
Bridgewater’s comeback and continued success earned him substantial bonuses. His Pro Bowl season in 2015 was a highlight3.
Impact on Future Contracts
Bridgewater’s comeback and professionalism positively impacted his future contracts. Teams recognized his value and potential despite setbacks.
Teddy Bridgewater Contract: Panthers’ $63 Million Deal
The Carolina Panthers signed Bridgewater to a three-year, $63 million deal in 2020. It included a $15 million signing bonus and $33 million in guaranteed money1. This contract showed Bridgewater’s value as a starting quarterback.
Broncos and Dolphins Era: Contract Analysis
Denver Broncos Contract Structure
In 2021, the Denver Broncos traded for Teddy Bridgewater. He signed a one-year contract worth $4,437,000, with $4,250,000 guaranteed1.
Miami Dolphins Agreement Details
Bridgewater’s 2022 contract with the Miami Dolphins was a one-year, $6.5 million deal. It included a $2 million signing bonus and $6.5 million in guaranteed money1.
Final NFL Season and Lions Contract
Bridgewater’s final contract was a one-year, $3 million deal with the Detroit Lions in 2023. It included a $500,000 signing bonus and $2.55 million in guaranteed money1. This contract highlighted his enduring value and respect in the NFL.
Conclusion
Teddy Bridgewater’s contract history is a compelling story of resilience and adaptability. From his rookie deal to the $63 million contract with the Panthers, his journey reflects the ever-changing NFL landscape. As he concludes his career, Bridgewater’s legacy will be shaped by his on-field performance and contract negotiations.
Early Career and Rookie Contract with Vikings
Teddy Bridgewater started his NFL career with the Minnesota Vikings. They picked him in the first round of the 2014 NFL Draft, as the 32nd overall pick4. He signed a 4-year, $6,849,502 rookie contract with a $3,301,456 signing bonus and $5,495,479 guaranteed4. Bridgewater made a big impact in his first season.
First-Round Draft Pick Details
Bridgewater was chosen as a first-round draft pick by the Minnesota Vikings4. This pick showed the team’s faith in him and their high hopes for his future as their quarterback.
Minnesota Vikings Initial Contract Terms
Bridgewater’s rookie contract had a $3,301,456 signing bonus and $5,495,479 guaranteed4. It also had an average annual salary of $1,712,3764. These terms gave Bridgewater financial security and a chance to prove himself as the team’s starting quarterback.
Rookie Season Performance Impact
In his rookie season, Bridgewater played 13 games, starting 12. He completed 259 of 402 passes for 2,919 yards, 14 touchdowns, and 12 interceptions4. His strong play earned him a spot on the PFWA All-Rookie Team in 20144. This showed his potential and set the stage for his future success with the Vikings.
Bridgewater’s early career with the Minnesota Vikings was impressive. His rookie season and promise as a first-round draft pick were clear. His contract terms gave him a strong financial base, helping him become a valuable asset for the team.
Major Career Setback and Contract Implications
In 2016, Teddy Bridgewater’s NFL career hit a major roadblock. He suffered a severe knee injury during a preseason practice with the Minnesota Vikings5. This injury forced him to miss the 2016 season and most of 2017, affecting his career setback and contract talks5.
The Vikings had high hopes for Bridgewater. But they had to make a tough call. They chose not to pick up his fifth-year option for 2018, worth $12.198 million. This showed how his injury impacted his future5.
Bridgewater’s NFL comeback showed his strength and will to succeed. His fight to get back on the field influenced his contracts and roles with teams5.
Teams were unsure about Bridgewater’s recovery and how it would affect his play. This made it hard for them to offer long-term, big-money deals. Yet, his dedication and ability to bounce back opened doors for future chances and talks5.
| Stat | Value |
|---|---|
| Bridgewater’s Fifth-Year Option for 2018 | $12.198 million |
Bridgewater’s story from a young, promising quarterback to a resilient NFL comeback is inspiring. It shows how unpredictable sports can be and the value of staying strong and adaptable in the face of challenges5.
“Bridgewater’s remarkable comeback became a testament to his resilience and determination.”
Revival with Saints and Contract Evolution
Teddy Bridgewater’s NFL career saw a big change when he joined the New Orleans Saints in 2018. He started as a backup quarterback to Drew Brees. But, his time in New Orleans was a turning point in his contract evolution6.
Backup Role and Financial Terms
Bridgewater signed a one-year deal with the Saints in 2019 for $7.25 million. This was because he was Brees’ backup6. But, when Brees got hurt, Bridgewater got his chance. He made five starts and showed his worth6.
Performance-Based Earnings
In those five games, Bridgewater threw 133 of 196 passes for 1,384 yards. He had 9 touchdowns and just 2 interceptions6. His strong play made the New Orleans Saints see his value. This set him up for bigger contracts later on.
Impact on Future Contracts
Bridgewater’s time with the Saints was a key moment in his career6. It showed his skills and opened doors for better contracts. He went on to sign with the Carolina Panthers and Denver Broncos for more money.
Teddy Bridgewater’s story with the New Orleans Saints shows how NFL quarterback contracts change. He went from a backup to a starter. His success and the impact on his future contracts show the value of being adaptable and resilient in football6.
Teddy Bridgewater Contract: Panthers’ $63 Million Deal
Teddy Bridgewater’s NFL career is filled with resilience and determination. In 2020, he signed a 3-year, $63 million deal with the Carolina Panthers. This move highlighted his worth as a top quarterback in the league7.
The Panthers showed their faith in Bridgewater with a $15 million signing bonus and $33 million guaranteed. His salary jumped to $21 million annually, showing his growth and the team’s dedication to success1.
In his only season with the Panthers, Bridgewater played in 15 games. He threw for 3,733 yards, 15 touchdowns, and 11 interceptions7. This performance solidified his role as a reliable starter, setting the stage for future deals.
Bridgewater’s path to the Panthers’ deal was filled with early promise, a tough injury, and a strong comeback. His ability to bounce back from setbacks has been a key part of his career8.
With the Panthers’ contract, Bridgewater’s career earnings hit $64,636,455 by 20241. This deal is the highlight of his NFL career, showing his worth and ability to perform under pressure.
Broncos and Dolphins Era: Contract Analysis
Teddy Bridgewater’s NFL career has seen many twists and turns. His contract history shows how the league is always changing. He started strong with the Minnesota Vikings but faced a big setback. Later, he found success with the New Orleans Saints and Carolina Panthers9.
Denver Broncos Contract Structure
In 2021, Bridgewater moved to the Denver Broncos. He signed a 1-year, $4,437,000 contract9. During his time there, he started 14 games. He threw for 3,052 yards, 18 touchdowns, and 7 interceptions9.
Miami Dolphins Agreement Details
In 2022, Bridgewater joined the Miami Dolphins. He signed a 1-year, $6,500,000 fully guaranteed contract9. As a backup, he played in 5 games and started 2. He threw for 683 yards, 4 touchdowns, and 4 interceptions9.
Bridgewater’s contract history shows the NFL quarterback market’s constant change. Teams value his experience and leadership, even as a backup. His ability to fit into different systems makes him valuable10.
As the quarterback scene keeps changing, Bridgewater’s story teaches us about resilience. It shows how important it is to seize opportunities, even when the future is uncertain11.
Final NFL Season and Lions Contract
Teddy Bridgewater ended his NFL career in 2023 with a one-year, $3,000,000 deal from the Detroit Lions12. He played in just one game, but his time with the Lions was the end of a 10-year journey12.
In Detroit, Bridgewater mentored young players like Jameson Williams and Hendon Hooker12. Hooker, a third-round pick, was rehabbing an ACL injury. Bridgewater’s advice was very helpful12.
Bridgewater’s career had its ups and downs. He was a first-round pick in 2014 with the Minnesota Vikings12. He also had a strong stint with the New Orleans Saints, going 5-0 as a fill-in starter12. He retired on February 2, 2024, after earning $64,636,455 with seven teams13.
The Detroit Lions now face key decisions for the 2024 season. With Bridgewater retired and only Hendon Hooker under contract13, they must shape their quarterback position.
| Player | Contract Details |
|---|---|
| Nate Sudfeld | 1-year, $1.2 million deal14 |
| Brock Wright | 3-year, $12 million offer sheet14 |
| Graham Glasgow | 3-year, $20 million deal14 |
| Jalen Reeves-Maybin | 2-year, $7.5 million contract14 |
| Emmanuel Moseley | 1-year, $2.2 million deal14 |
| Michael Badgley | 1-year, $1.3 million contract14 |
The Detroit Lions must now assess their roster and make strategic decisions. Bridgewater’s guidance will be missed, but the team must move forward. They aim to return to the playoffs.
Conclusion
Teddy Bridgewater’s NFL career shows his strength and the changing world of contract talks. He started strong as a first-round pick with the Minnesota Vikings. Then, he faced a big injury but still earned over $64 million15.
Bridgewater played for several teams, including the New Orleans Saints and Carolina Panthers. He signed a $63 million contract with the Panthers15. His career passer rating of 90.516 shows his skill.
His best season was in 2020, passing for 3,733 yards and 15 touchdowns17. This made him a versatile and skilled quarterback.
Now, Bridgewater is moving into coaching. He plans to coach at Miami Northwestern, his old high school. He won a state championship there17. His net worth is $10 million15.
Bridgewater’s journey is a great example of what it takes to succeed in the NFL. It shows the importance of nfl career, contract negotiations, quarterback market, and financial impact in football.
FAQ
What was Teddy Bridgewater’s career earnings and the teams he played for in the NFL?
Teddy Bridgewater earned $64,636,455 by 2024. He played for seven teams: the Minnesota Vikings, New York Jets, New Orleans Saints, Carolina Panthers, Denver Broncos, Miami Dolphins, and Detroit Lions.
What were the details of Teddy Bridgewater’s rookie contract with the Minnesota Vikings?
Teddy Bridgewater was drafted 32nd overall in 2014. He signed a 4-year, $6,849,502 contract. This included a $3,301,456 signing bonus and $5,495,479 guaranteed. His average salary was $1,712,376 annually.
How did Teddy Bridgewater’s major knee injury in 2016 impact his career and contract negotiations?
Bridgewater’s severe knee injury in 2016 forced him to miss the 2016 season and most of 2017. This injury greatly affected his career and contract talks. The Vikings declined his fifth-year option for 2018.
How did Teddy Bridgewater’s performance with the New Orleans Saints impact his future contracts?
Bridgewater played as Drew Brees’ backup but started five games in 2019. He showed his skills, increasing his value. His performance in New Orleans, with 133 completions, 1,384 yards, 9 touchdowns, and 2 interceptions, prepared him for future contracts.
What were the details of Teddy Bridgewater’s 3-year, $63 million contract with the Carolina Panthers?
In 2020, Bridgewater signed a 3-year, $63 million deal with the Panthers. This included a $15 million signing bonus and $33 million guaranteed. His average salary jumped to $21 million annually.
What were Teddy Bridgewater’s contract details with the Denver Broncos and Miami Dolphins?
Bridgewater was traded to the Broncos in 2021, signing a 1-year, $4,437,000 contract. In 2022, he joined the Dolphins on a 1-year, $6,500,000 fully guaranteed contract.
What were the details of Teddy Bridgewater’s final NFL contract with the Detroit Lions?
Bridgewater’s last contract was with the Detroit Lions in 2023. He signed a 1-year, $3,000,000 deal with $2,550,000 guaranteed.
Source Links
- Teddy Bridgewater | NFL Contracts & Salaries | Spotrac.com – https://www.spotrac.com/nfl/player/_/id/14441/teddy-bridgewater
- Teddy Bridgewater – https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Teddy_Bridgewater
- Teddy Bridgewater Net Worth 2024: Wealth, Salary, Career Achievements – https://pennbookcenter.com/teddy-bridgewater-net-worth/
- History-Making Former Vikings QB Makes Stunning Announcement After Reaching Goal – https://heavy.com/sports/nfl/minnesota-vikings/bridgewater-free-agency-darnold-mccarthy/
- Another Huge Club Have Joined the Race to Sign Liverpool’s Trent Alexander-Arnold – Report – https://sports.yahoo.com/another-huge-club-joined-race-164500315.html
- PDF – https://www.shafr.org/assets/docs/Passport/2024/passport-09-2024.pdf
- Buccaneers Should Upgrade at Backup QB With Former $63 Million Pro Bowler – https://heavy.com/sports/nfl/tampa-bay-buccaneers/backup-qb-upgrade-teddy-bridgewater/
- Former $63m NFL QB leads high school team to state title in first year as coach – https://talksport.com/nfl/2382612/teddy-bridgewater-high-school-championship-miami/
- Assessing intriguing QB market as 2024 NFL offseason nears: Who could be headed where? – https://www.nfl.com/news/assessing-intriguing-qb-market-as-2024-nfl-offseason-nears-who-could-be-headed-where
- Why drafting a first-round QB is worse than a coin flip, unless you’re the Bears – https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/5482909/2024/05/20/nfl-draft-rookie-quarterbacks-history/
- Is Tua Tagovailoa The Next $200 Million Quarterback? – https://www.the33rdteam.com/is-tua-tagovailoa-the-next-200-million-quarterback/
- Teddy Bridgewater hired as head coach of his high school alma mater – https://www.mlive.com/lions/2024/02/teddy-bridgewater-hired-as-head-coach-of-his-high-school-alma-mater.html
- Lions contract tracker: Depth chart of signed players, free agents & cap hits – https://www.prideofdetroit.com/2024/2/1/24022136/2024-detroit-lions-contract-tracker-positional-breakdown-of-signed-players-free-agents
- 2024 Lions free agency, offseason tracker: Latest signings, trades – https://www.prideofdetroit.com/2024/2/26/24080990/2024-detroit-lions-free-agency-offseason-tracker-latest-signings-trades
- Teddy Bridgewater – NFL Quarterback, Career Highlights, Injury Setbacks, and Retirement Plans | Teddy Bridgewater Net Worth 2024 – https://protectnfm.com/people/teddy-bridgewater/
- Cowboys gifted perfect Dak Prescott backup thanks to shocking NFL comeback – https://thelandryhat.com/cowboys-gifted-perfect-dak-prescott-backup-shocking-nfl-comeback-teddy-bridgewater-01jfd9wkcvfy
- Former NFL QB Teddy Bridgewater coaches alma mater to Florida high school state title in 1st season – https://www.aol.com/sports/former-nfl-qb-teddy-bridgewater-175317796.html
