What happened: The 33-year-old stepped away during the 2026 preseason after returning in March. He entered the league in 2014 and earned a Pro Bowl selection in 2015.
Why it matters: Bridgewater's exit removes an experienced quarterback option during preseason. His career continued for a decade after a 2016 knee injury cost him the following season.
By the numbers: Bridgewater completed 66.3% of his passes across 83 games, totaling 15,182 yards, 75 touchdowns and 47 interceptions. He made 65 starts and added 848 rushing yards with 11 scores.
What to watch: The open quarterback spot and Bridgewater's next post-playing role are the developments to watch.