Detroit Lions: Three trade targets to backup Matthew Stafford

Teddy Bridgewater, New York Jets

Desperate for an upgrade at quarterback prior to the NFL Draft, the New York Jets made an excellent decision in signing Teddy Bridgewater.

At worst, if the devastating leg injury that he suffered two years ago prevented him from returning to form, the team has a capable backup or could opt to release him. The best case scenario? His full recovery and tireless work ethic avail him to compete with Josh McCown and Sam Darnold for the starting job.

As of now, the Jets have the luxury of that best case scenario. Bridgewater has impressed in training camp, showing no ill effects from his injury. He is truly pushing both quarterbacks on the roster, but with Darnold appearing more ready to start than anticipated, Bridgewater may be the odd man out.

Darnold is the future of the Jets, if not the present. Josh McCown, who turned 39 last month, signed a one-year, $10 million guaranteed contract in March. He is a beloved member of that locker room and was largely brought back to mentor the Jets’ heir-apparent. Neither of those two is going anywhere.

That leaves Bridgewater, still 25 years of age and with a very manageable one-year, six-million dollar deal. His health questions seem answered, and he has demonstrated the ability to at least compete for a job as a starting quarterback. His value has skyrocketed, and the Jets would be wise to cash in on their investment for future considerations.

Prior to his injury, Bridgewater did not amaze with his statistics but was clearly ascending. In two seasons with the Minnesota Vikings, he started 28 games, completed 64.7 percent of his passes, and a 28:22 touchdown-to-interception ratio.

The numbers are not gaudy, but they are consistent.

Given the Lions’ current situation, Bridgewater would certainly be an upgrade behind Matthew Stafford.