After Almost a Decade in NFL, Veteran QB Signs Rookie Contract to Find a Pro Home

The recent draft took place from April 27–29, 2023, outside Union Station in Kansas City, Missouri. CBS Sports noted higher rookie salaries tied to salary cap growth. Despite a 7.97% cap rise ($16.6M), signing bonuses rise 1% yearly due to the 2020 NFL-NFLPA deal, borrowing from future rookie wages.

Even though veteran quarterbacks like Teddy Bridgewater, might feel regretful about hearing the base rookie salary for 2023. Sources say, Dolphins experienced quarterback Bridgewater’s contract with the Detroit Lions, is valued at a maximum of $5 million. This amount is notably less than that of a rookie player.

Bridgewater’s surprising salary decision

While not yet official, sources indicate that Teddy Bridgewater’s agreement with the Detroit Lions includes $2.5 million guaranteed. In comparison, the minimum salary for an NFL rookie in 2023 is approximately $750,000 annually. Consequently, Bridgewater’s contract falls below the average for a first-round pick in 2023 and aligns more closely with the rookie minimum salary.

This leads to the question of why Bridgewater would accept such a relatively low salary despite his nearly decade-long NFL career. Firstly, it’s important to note that Bridgewater is not a rookie; he has been part of the league since 2014.

His career earnings exceeding $62 million may make him less financially concerned than younger players aiming to secure their futures. Secondly, Bridgewater’s options in the free agent market may be limited due to his struggles as the backup for the Miami Dolphins during the previous season.

Decoding Bridgewater’s choice

Bridgewater might view the opportunity with the Lions as a chance to rejuvenate his career and establish himself as a dependable starter or backup. The presence of the Lions’ new head coach, Dan Campbell, who worked alongside Bridgewater for two years in New Orleans, could potentially influence this decision.

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To provide context, Teddy Bridgewater was drafted in the first round of the 2014 NFL Draft by the Minnesota Vikings. He signed a four-year, $6,849,502 contract, with $5,495,479 guaranteed and an average annual salary of $1,712,376. Last year, Bridgewater entered a one-year contract worth $6,500,000 with the Miami Dolphins.

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