By Ross Jackson
The New Orleans Saints haven’t shied away from returns in recent years. This offseason, the Saints should consider another with the opportunity to sign former quarterback Teddy Bridgewater in free agency this year.
Whether trading to re-acquire running back Mark Ingram in 2021, signing tight end Jimmy Graham in 2023 or bringing back wide receiver Brandon Cooks last year, New Orleans has always been open to a reunion.
The team even made a move in 2020 to bring back safety Malcolm Jenkins. This reversed course on what former head coach Sean Payton called “one of the bigger mistakes” he and the team made, when they let the safety leave in free agency seven years prior.
Bridgewater makes sense as another rekindled flame, especially if the team sees veteran quarterback Taysom Hill leave after his contract voids on March 10. Or perhaps if Hill retires.
It’s often underestimated how valuable Hill was in providing perspective as an experienced passer.
Bridgewater attended the same University, Louisville, as starting quarterback Tyler Shough. But more importantly, he’s navigated serious injuries at the next level, something Shough experienced in college. Bridgewater’s ability to revive his career, even reclaiming a starting role and going 5–1 in New Orleans, could make him a valuable mentor for the second-year quarterback.
Granted, Bridgewater and head coach Kellen Moore don’t have much familiarity, if any at all. But the value of the veteran presence is to saddle your quarterback with someone they can connect with and learn from. It’s hard not to imagine Bridgewater being a good fit for that role.
The team would be wise to hold on to former starting quarterback Spencer Rattler, as well, who has starting experience in their system and who Moore knows well.
Bridgewater is heading into free agency following a one-year deal with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.