The Detroit Lions are gearing up for their Monday, December 29, matchup against the San Francisco 49ers with veteran quarterback Teddy Bridgewater joining the roster. However, head coach Dan Campbell has issued a new statement clarifying the team’s quarterback situation.
Bringing Bridgewater on board raised questions about Campbell’s confidence in backup quarterback Hendon Hooker stepping in for franchise QB Jared Goff if needed. Campbell addressed these concerns directly, shedding light on his perspective.
Dan Campbell on Detroit Lions’ QB Situation
During a press conference on Thursday, December 26, Campbell discussed the addition of Bridgewater, emphasizing the veteran’s experience. He also made it clear that the move doesn’t indicate a lack of faith in Hooker’s abilities as a backup quarterback.
“This doesn’t mean we’re disappointed in Hooker. That’s not what this means,” Campbell stated. “It just means this gives us somebody that’s played a lot in the NFL. We’re getting ready for the playoffs, so it’ll be good to get him back in the fold with us.”
As Super Bowl favorites, the Lions must carefully manage their roster, ensuring every position is as strong as possible. Campbell noted that Hooker is progressing steadily and remains a potential option for game time.
“This does not mean that Hooker is out. That’s not what this means,” Campbell clarified. “If it comes to that, Hooker is going to play for us, but Teddy probably will, too. So, I understand what it looks like, but it’s just a different world that we’re getting ready to step into, and we felt this was the right thing to do,” particularly with someone Campbell deeply trusts.
Campbell added, “He understands our offense well. The guys know him well. The coaches know him well, and he brings a certain level of comfort to us.”
Bridgewater’s Arrival Was Always a Possibility
Campbell explained during the press conference that bringing Bridgewater aboard wasn’t a spur-of-the-moment decision. “We’ve been in contact with Teddy for some time, so this isn’t a hasty move. It was always potentially a possibility,” Campbell said.
He highlighted Bridgewater’s recent activities, including community work and coaching success, noting, “We all know what Teddy’s been doing down there, giving back to his community, and they won a championship down there. So, his debut as a coach worked out pretty dang good.”
Despite his time away, Bridgewater has remained in shape, continuing to throw and maintain his readiness. Campbell stressed the value of Bridgewater’s veteran presence: “Just getting him worked back in here a little bit brings a level of professionalism, a veteran presence, somebody that’s great for our team. He’s great for the position.”
With the playoffs on the horizon, Campbell underscored the importance of having a reliable quarterback in a high-pressure, single-elimination environment. While Hooker’s limited playtime might make a playoff debut challenging, Bridgewater’s experience provides an added layer of security for the Lions.
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