As Mike McDaniel embarks on his 3rd season as the head coach of the Miami Dolphins, his coaching legacy is beginning to take shape, especially after achieving back-to-back playoff appearances. This season, he reflects on the growth of his coaching tree, notably highlighted by the recent appointment of Teddy Bridgewater, who served as his backup quarterback in 2022, as the head coach for Miami Northwestern High School. This connection illustrates the impact McDaniel has had on his players, fostering their development even beyond their time in the NFL.

“I hadn’t thought of Coach Bridgewater as a disciple of my tree, but technically I guess you’re right and it’s cool to see,” McDaniel remarked when asked about Bridgewater’s new role and his influence on the coaching landscape. “I kind of had an idea that Teddy would go this direction when he was kind of figuring things out and what he wanted to do.” Such acknowledgment showcases the mentorship role McDaniel plays, encouraging former players to pursue their dreams in coaching and contributing to the future of football.

Teddy Bridgewater, a first-round pick in 2014 by the Minnesota Vikings, experienced a solid 9-season career in the NFL, with a record of 33 wins and 32 losses, including 75 touchdown passes and 47 interceptions. During his time with the Vikings, he achieved a commendable record of 17-11 while starting 28 games. His journey also included significant contributions to the New Orleans Saints, where he led the team to an impressive 5-0 record in 2019. Bridgewater’s experience with the Carolina Panthers, Denver Broncos, and Detroit Lions further enriches his understanding of the game, making him well-equipped for his new coaching challenge.

“He’s an extremely skilled person and has a great deal of things that he might do with his time, however he’s passionate about football so it doesn’t shock me,” McDaniel expressed, highlighting Bridgewater’s dedication and multifaceted talents. This commitment to football emphasizes the importance of passion in coaching, as it can inspire young athletes and influence the next generation of players.

“That’s pretty cool, Year 3, to have a tree. That means there’s growth in life. It’s not fall and there’s not people scattering around the league just getting fired because of their association with me so that’s good.” McDaniel’s sentiments reflect a positive outlook on his coaching journey, emphasizing the stability and growth of his coaching tree, which serves as a testament to his leadership and the relationships he has built within the NFL community.