Teddy Bridgewater returned to his alma mater, Miami Northwestern, to lead the school to a national championship as head coach in 2024, but his tenure with the program took an unexpected turn before he could head into year two.
Bridgewater was suspended by the school in July, nearly a week after a Facebook post that raised some eyebrows was posted by his account.
Despite the punishment, Bridgewater released a defiant statement that he would not leave the school. He later relented, leaving the school to return to football for his 12th NFL season, signing with the Buccaneers during training camp.
After his first practice with his new team, Bridgewater spoke at length about his suspension and what led to it. "Miami Northwestern is in a tough neighborhood. Things can happen when kids are walking home.
"I was just trying to protect them."
Teddy Bridgewater talks about his suspension from coaching high school due to impermissible benefits that included Uber and meals for players. “Miami Northwestern is in a tough neighborhood. Things can happen when kids are walking home. I was just trying to protect them.” pic.twitter.com/7NH3U9bTIz
— JennaLaineESPN (@JennaLaineESPN) August 6, 2025
Here's what you need to know about Bridgewater's suspension and his history with Miami Northwestern.
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Teddy Bridgewater Miami Northwestern suspension
In July, Bridgewater released a statement that confirmed that he was suspended for providing impermissible benefits to players at Miami Northwestern.
"The suspension came from MNW and it’s impossible to suspend someone who doesn’t work for you," Bridgewater said late Sunday. "So if [I'm] suspended from MNW [I'm] free to go to another school of my choice but IM NOT GOING ANYWHERE."
The length of Bridgewater's suspension was not clear, though Miami Northwestern's season opener is set for Aug. 23. The 32-year-old also hinted that he could stay on as a volunteer coach if he remains suspended.
Six days before the punishment, Bridgewater posted a request for donations to the program and claimed he covered expenses for meals, Uber rides and more with his own money in 2024.
"Today I’m coming to you on behalf of the football team and seeking donations to assist our boys this season and to help me carry the load so I no longer have to take from my personal funds to keep smiles on these young men face and remind them that they matter," Bridgewater said. The veteran quarterback outlined the expenses he accrued last season, detailing that he spent thousands each week to support his players.
By giving those players benefits, Bridgewater allegedly violated Florida High School Athletic Association rules.
After winning a state championship last year, Bridgewater ended his retirement from the NFL to rejoin the Lions and serve as Jared Goff's backup in the final weeks of the regular season and playoffs. He returned to the league by signing with the Buccaneers in August.
MORE: Complete career timeline for Teddy Bridgewater
Teddy Bridgewater contract
Bridgewater signed a one-year contract with the Buccaneers on Tuesday, Aug. 5.
The terms of his contract have not been disclosed.
Teddy Bridgewater coaching history
Bridgewater served in a volunteer role at Miami Northwestern in 2018 and 2019 while still in the NFL, but he ascended to head coach after announcing late in the 2023 season that he would be retiring from the NFL.
While Bridgewater came out of retirement after leading Miami Northwestern to a 12-2 season and Class 3A state championship in 2024, the decision did not affect his job status, but his decision to return to the NFL did.
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Teddy Bridgewater net worth
Bridgewater's net worth is an estimated $24 million, according to Celebrity Net Worth. The former first-round pick made $64.8 million in career earnings over parts of 11 seasons in the NFL and will add more in Year 12.