The former Minnesota Vikings quarterback, Teddy Bridgewater, got into some hot water recently with regards to his high school football coaching role at Miami Northwestern, where he was suspended by the school for providing ‘impermissible benefits’ to his student players, according to a now deleted Facebook post from the one-time Pro Bowler.
The “benefits” included, according to Bridgewater himself included paying for food, Uber rides and other costs – which encompassed having the football field painted and ordering player-recovery services.
In light of this, people across the pro football media (and beyond) felt like this was a poor reaction from the school, given that he takes on the financial burden, out of his own pocket, and is already a “volunteer” head coach despite many high school head-coaching jobs being paid roles.
Indeed, many media members had some very strong words and feelings towards the school that suspended Bridgewater, including NFL insider, Jordan Schultz, who called the action “shameful”.
Media Rush To Teddy Bridgewater’s Defense After Suspension
Former Offensive Rookie of the Year and second overall pick, Robert Griffin III, chimed in, claiming that Bridgewater’s suspension “isn’t justice” and that it is instead “punishing love, leadership and sacrifice.”
Even The 33rd Team’s Ari Meirov, who broadly remains an impartial reporter of NFL news and scoops, added his thoughts on the matter.
Bridgewater Vindicated By Public Opinion After School Decision
There is no doubt that, on the face of it, it seems absurd to suspend someone for paying for additional benefits for their students. But often there is more to the story than meets the eye; or indeed organizations have strict policies that they need to adhere to, at least on paper.
As ESPN notes, “The Florida High School Athletic Association confirmed to Rivals on Monday that it is gathering more information.”
Despite Bridgewater’s career never quite reaching the highs that many thought possible after a strong first two seasons in the NFL, which resulted in his sole Pro Bowl bid back in 2015, he was known around the league as a consummate professional and was very well-regarded teammate for the duration of his playing days.
And given the details shared about his generosity shown to his students, it seems that these many reports of his high character have been proven correct.
