UPDATE: Active NFL quarterback Teddy Bridgewater has been suspended as the head coach of the Miami Northwestern High School football team following allegations of providing “impermissible benefits” to players. This urgent development was confirmed after Bridgewater admitted to offering perks such as Uber rides, catered meals, and recovery services to students, actions he self-reported to school officials.
Bridgewater took to social media to address the suspension, clarifying that it was issued by the school despite his claims of not being formally employed there. He stated, “The suspension came from MNW and it’s impossible to suspend someone who doesn’t work for you.” The quarterback emphasized his commitment to the team, saying, “I’m free to go to another school of my choice but I’m not going anywhere.”
In a series of posts, Bridgewater expressed frustration, claiming there was no real investigation into his actions. “We SELF REPORTED,” he insisted, suggesting that school administrators are trying to force him out. He added that if necessary, he would continue to support the team from the bleachers, a role he filled previously in 2018 and 2019.
“A coach cannot provide free or reduced-cost transportation to a student, nor can they purchase anything for a student,” stated Andre Williams, the school’s athletic director, confirming the policy violation.
Bridgewater, 32, is a celebrated figure at Miami Northwestern, where he led the football team to a Class 3A state championship in 2024 during his first year as head coach. The school has honored him by naming its football field after him. Before his coaching career, Bridgewater was selected in the first round of the 2014 NFL Draft and most recently played for the Detroit Lions before briefly retiring in 2023 and returning for the 2024 season.
Detroit Lions head coach Dan Campbell praised Bridgewater’s dual role as an NFL player and high school coach, recognizing his contributions to the community and the successful season at Miami Northwestern. “They won a championship down there, so his debut as coaching worked out pretty dang good,” Campbell noted.
This situation raises significant questions about the responsibilities and limitations placed on coaches at the high school level, especially those balancing professional sports careers. As the community watches closely, the implications of this suspension could impact Bridgewater’s future with Miami Northwestern and his ongoing NFL career.
Stay tuned for more updates on this developing story as the situation unfolds.