Teddy Bridgewater Stands by Paying for High School Players’ Meals, Uber Rides: ‘I Know What It’s Like’

‘I’m a father first before anything. And when I decided to coach, those players became my sons,’ he said.

Miami Dolphins quarterback Teddy Bridgewater (5) sets to pass against the New England Patriots during the first half of an NFL football game, in Foxborough, Mass., on Jan. 1, 2023. Michael Dwyer/AP Photo

Tampa Bay Buccaneers quarterback Teddy Bridgewater on Wednesday defended his decision to give financial benefits to his high school players.

Bridgewater spent 2024 as head coach of his alma mater, Miami Northwestern Senior High School. He was suspended from coaching in July due to providing meals, Uber rides, and recovery therapy treatments to players—benefits he paid for out of his own pocket.