Teddy Bridgewater has potential to be Jets franchise quarterback

MINNEAPOLIS, MN - DECEMBER 17: Teddy Bridgewater #5 of the Minnesota Vikings takes the field for the first time since the 2015-16 season in the fourth quarter of the game against the Cincinnati Bengals on December 17, 2017 at U.S. Bank Stadium in Minneapolis, Minnesota. (Photo by Hannah Foslien/Getty Images)
MINNEAPOLIS, MN - DECEMBER 17: Teddy Bridgewater #5 of the Minnesota Vikings takes the field for the first time since the 2015-16 season in the fourth quarter of the game against the Cincinnati Bengals on December 17, 2017 at U.S. Bank Stadium in Minneapolis, Minnesota. (Photo by Hannah Foslien/Getty Images) /
facebooktwitterreddit

The New York Jets made a bold move in free agency when it came to signing quarterback Teddy Bridgewater to a one-year deal. Make no mistake about it, he has the potential to be the franchise quarterback they’ve been looking for.

For decades the New York Jets have been searching for an answer to professional football’s most important position. Many quarterbacks with an array of skill sets have come and gone with futility remaining as the only constant. Enter Teddy Bridgewater and the 2018 Jets.

A career-threatening, non-contact knee injury suffered by Bridgewater led the Minnesota Vikings and him on two entirely separate paths. As a result, Bridgewater was left to test the free agency waters and was scooped up by the Jets on a one-year deal with up to $15 million available with incentives.

When an athlete is faced with a career-threatening injury, their response spotlights their true mindset. Bridgewater’s recovery a testament to incredible mental fortitude. He has shown a dedication and passion for football through his incredible strength, patience, and humility. Throughout the recovery process, he was able to pack on an additional 20 pounds of muscle proving his commitment to withstanding the rigors of being an NFL starting quarterback.

More from Free Agency

He is dedicated to serving his community and leading by example on and off the football field which falls right in line with the Jets new identity.

The Jets have an excellent training staff and a solid core of veterans surrounding Bridgewater that will improve his conditioning and competition. A competition that will make him a stronger and far more confident quarterback. With mentor/coach Josh McCown back in the fold, Bridgewater should have ample resources for success.

The McCown signing creates continuity and allows for younger players to continue their own growth and development within the offense. Through McCown’s first-hand knowledge of the offense and the players within, Bridgewater should have a sizable jump on the learning curve. He can absorb the new scheme while also determining how to best utilize the individual skills of the players around him. Bridgewater will have time to learn the offense and become familiar with the coaches and players while not being rushed into a starting role.

Must Read: Top 5 quarterbacks of all-time to play for the Jets

By the conclusion of training camp, it will be apparent how prepared Bridgewater is to start and have success again on Sundays. The Jets have reworked their roster and coaching staff in hopes of grooming their next franchise quarterback. By building an impressive core of talent on offense, the Jets have given Bridgewater a legitimate opportunity for success. He has overcome his injury and will now beat the odds in New York. Make no mistake about it, the Jets have found their next franchise quarterback as he will continue to surprise the football world.