The Detroit Lions have emerged as one of the NFL’s top teams in the 2024 regular season. Sitting at 13-2 heading into Week 17, they are poised to potentially clinch the NFC’s No. 1 seed on Sunday. The Lions are fully committed to reaching their first Super Bowl in franchise history, drawing the interest of experienced players.
“Many people don’t realize the bond Dan [Campbell] and I share, as well as the one I have with [Aaron Glenn],” Bridgewater said on Saturday, per the Lions’ social media. “It dates back to our time in New Orleans and extends beyond football. I observed how Dan managed the tight end group and how AG worked with the defensive backs.”
Bridgewater acknowledges how former Saints players thrived under Campbell and Glenn’s guidance.
“I saw how those players developed in their system – the tight ends and defensive backs,” Bridgewater added. “Guys like Marcus Williams, now in Baltimore, Vonn Bell, and Marshon Lattimore. Watching their growth and understanding the influence AG and Dan had on them was inspiring.”
Bridgewater considers both Campbell and Glenn as mentors.
“These are men I truly admire,” Bridgewater said. “Even at 32, I can still look up to someone. Who better than these two?”
Hendon Hooker’s Take on Teddy Bridgewater’s Return
For Lions backup QB Hendon Hooker, Bridgewater’s return isn’t seen as competition.
Hooker expressed strong support for Bridgewater in a recent interview, showing excitement for his teammate’s return.
“I expected Teddy to come back this year,” Hooker shared on Friday with Dave Birkett of the Detroit Free Press. “I didn’t know exactly when, but we’ve been talking about it since summer. I knew he’d return once his season wrapped up.”
Beyond being a reliable backup for Jared Goff, Bridgewater offers valuable experience and leadership on the sidelines.
“I missed having him around, asking questions when Jared is busy,” Hooker said. “Teddy’s still my mentor, whether it’s about football, life, or professionalism, I always turn to him.”
Earlier this year, Bridgewater led his high school team to a championship. Now, he aims to secure a Super Bowl with the Lions.
