Teddy Bridgewater could remain with the Minnesota Vikings beyond the 2017 season, but the quarterback will have to work out an extension with the team in order for that to happen.
Tom Pelissero of USA Today reports that the Vikings have informed Bridgewater that they will not pick up the fifth-year option on his rookie contract.
#Vikings informed Teddy Bridgewater they’re declining his option, source said. No setback. No nerve issue. Just can’t injury-guarantee him.
— Tom Pelissero (@TomPelissero) May 1, 2017
If the Vikings did exercise the option, they would need to pay Bridgewater around $18 million for the 2018 season. While that number wouldn’t be all that high for a viable starting QB, Bridegwater’s status remains uncertain after he suffered a devastating knee injury prior to last season. The option year would be guaranteed for injury, and Minnesota doesn’t want to take that risk.
There’s a possibility the Vikings will try to work out an extension with Bridgewater, though it would likely be one that protects the team in the event that he can’t fully recover from the torn ACL and dislocated knee he suffered last August. We have heard differing reports about whether or not Bridgewater will be able to play in 2017, but the recent comments made by his coach did not sound promising.
