Minnesota Vikings quarterback Teddy Bridgewater has an award to add to his case, after NFL fans voted him the Pepsi Rookie of the Year for the 2014 season.
“This award means a lot to me. I’m glad to have the fan base that I have,” Bridgewater said, via Vikings.com. “They’re the reason I was even in consideration for this award. To be able to play the game is one thing, but to also have fan base is another and I’m very appreciative for that. Playing in The Bank this year – TCF Bank Stadium – hearing those fans chant my name, that was an amazing feeling. Also being able to go out and live out my dream, be able to complete my first season in the NFL was always a childhood dream of mine, so everything paid off.”
Bridgewater was the only quarterback of the five finalists on the ballot - a list that also included Buccaneers receiver Mike Evans, Bills receiver Sammy Watkins, Bengals running back Jeremy Hill, and Giants sensation/wide receiver Odell Beckham Jr.
“If I had to vote, I would vote for Odell Beckham,” Bridgewater said. “He had a great season this year. What he was able to do in those 12 games was pretty remarkable. He’s a spectacular athlete, but honestly, I voted for all those guys. You get to vote. It’s a fan vote. We appreciate the fans. They make it happen. I was able to win the (Pepsi Rookie of the Week) award two times this year, and it’s all the fans voting and the support system we have. It can go either way.”
The 32nd selection in the 2014 NFL Draft, Bridgewater has built quite the trusting relationship with his teammates and the Vikings coaching staff.
"Knowing you have your coach’s support, your teammates’ support just speaks volumes about the type of player you are,” Bridgewater said. “I just try to be a great teammate and great player for those coaches and the guys in that locker room. We have a ton of great character on that team and in that locker room.”
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