Former NFL quarterback Teddy Bridgewater has been suspended from his job coaching the Miami Northwestern High School football team because he provided financial benefits that he says he had reported to the school.
The Florida High School Athletic Association told Rivals, a prep sports site, that it is looking into allegations of improper benefits provided to Miami Northwestern players. Bridgewater said the school self-reported to the athletic association.
On July 7, a post from Bridgewater went viral after he said he covered Uber rides, meals and injury recovery programs for his players last season. The Florida native said he was spending $1,500 per week on the high school athletes. He solicited donations to help cover the costs.
Bridgewater noted that his suspension won’t change his plans for the upcoming season. He reaffirmed his desire to continue coaching the team in a social media post
“The suspension came from MNW and it’s impossible to suspend someone who doesn’t work for you. So if im suspended from MNW im free to go to another school of my choice but IM NOT GOING ANYWHERE,” he posted on Facebook. “And if it comes down to it, I will volunteer from the bleachers like I used to in 2018 and 2019 when no one had a problem.”
The 32-year-old was drafted in the first round by the Minnesota Vikings in the 2014 draft. After a Pro Bowl season in 2015, Bridgewater suffered a severe knee injury that derailed his career. He spent the next 10 seasons as a journeyman backup.
In 2024, he became the head coach at Miami Northwestern. He led the team to a state title before joining the Detroit Lions to serve as a backup for their playoff run. He completed his only pass for 3 yards in a divisional-round loss to the Commanders.
This article is based in part on wire service reports.
• Liam Griffin can be reached at lgriffin@washingtontimes.com.
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