Could Ravens Sign Teddy Bridgewater as Lamar Jackson Departure Insurance?
As the saga surrounding the Baltimore Ravens and quarterback Lamar Jackson continues to be written, general manager Eric DeCosta is apparently keeping his options open when it comes to the future of the position for his franchise.
From persistent trade rumors to potential Draft solutions, to Jackson ultimately finding his way back to Charm City, the Ravens are leaving no stone unturned in their quest to solidify their place at quarterback for 2023.
However, one option which has failed to garner similar attention has been utilizing the free agent market.
Despite reportedly having made offers to both Baker Mayfield and Jacoby Brissett (who eventually signed with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Washington Commanders, respectively), the Ravens have been quiet in showing their hand on the free agent market. Still, a recent ESPN projection indicates that Baltimore may be smart to look in the direction of former Miami Dolphins quarterback Teddy Bridgewater.
"Bridgewater is the best remaining option from a lackluster free agent class," wrote ESPN's Jamison Hensley. "There are five quarterbacks available who have a career winning record (minimum 20 starts): Bridgewater (33-32), Wentz (46-45-1), Matt Ryan (124-109-1), Joe Flacco (99-81) and Cam Newton (75-68-1)."
Bridgewater, 30, started five games for the Dolphins in 2022 in place of injured starter Tua Tagovailoa. He completed 49 passes for 683 yards, throwing four touchdown passes and four interceptions. Unfortunately, his season was cut short after suffering a broken finger in his throwing hand during their Week 17 loss to the New England Patriots.
Throughout his eight-year NFL career, Bridgewater has completed 62 percent of his passes for 15,120 yards with 75 touchdowns and 47 interceptions. In addition to his lone year in Miami, he has also spent time with the Minnesota Vikings, New Orleans Saints, Denver Broncos and Carolina Panthers.
While Bridgewater may not possess Jackson's level of athleticism, his ability to win games with a suitable supporting cast make him an intriguing option for the Ravens, either as a backup or a potential spot starter. if Jackson has, indeed played his final down for the Ravens, Bridgewater will not completely solve the problems left behind by his departure. However, he would be a solid addition to the flock for 2023.
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