Bucs' Teddy Bridgewater defends actions in high school coaching suspension: 'I just tried to protect them'

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Teddy Bridgewater appeared to stand by his decisions as head football coach of Miami Northwestern High School, which ultimately resulted in the NFL quarterback being suspended after leading the team to a state championship. 

Speaking to the media on Wednesday after signing a one-year deal with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers this week, Bridgewater explained his thought process behind the events that led to his suspension last month. 

Miami Northwestern's Teddy Bridgewater raises the state trophy following the team's win over Raines in the Class 3A championship on Dec. 14, 2024. (Chet Peterman/ Special to The Post/ USA Today Network via Imagn Images)

"Honestly, I think everyone knows that I'm just a cheerful guy, a cheerful giver as well. I'm a protector. I'm a father first before anything," he began. 

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"When I decided to coach, those players became my sons and I wanted to make sure that I just protect them in the best way that I can. I think that's what came about." 

Bridgewater was suspended last month for providing players with financial benefits – something he previously said he has informed the school about. In a post on Facebook last month, he explained that he personally funded uber rides, meal costs and physical therapy treatment for the team.

He reached out on social media asking for donations "so I no longer have to take from my personal funds to keep smiles on these young men's faces and remind them that they matter."

Tampa Bay Buccaneers Quarterback Teddy Bridgewater (16) goes thru a drill during the Training Camp work out on August 6, 2025, at the AdventHealth Training Center