Carolina Panthers: 4 big takeaways from Teddy Bridgewater’s presser

2. Teddy Bridgewater keen to be a leader for the Carolina Panthers

It is clear Teddy Bridgewater is keen to lead by example with the Carolina Panthers. His story is an inspiring one and hard not to get behind. So this should put him in a good position to make his presence felt on and off the field.

His career path from the No. 1 option with the Minnesota Vikings to the present day has been one of overcoming struggles and achieving success in the face of adversity. These are two things that the Panthers should see plenty of in 2020. And having this assured presence under center is going to assist them considerably in times of trouble.

This is a responsibility that Bridgewater is taking incredibly seriously. And he is looking for others to follow his lead in terms of actions speaking for themselves.

"“My purpose in life is to lead people. I take pride in that because I understand that eyes are always on me. Eyes are always on you when you’re in a position of leadership. “I don’t ever want to be the guy who’s the cause of someone going down the wrong path, whether it’s social justice or injustice, football, in my community. I understand I have a platform, but at the same time, that platform means nothing if my actions don’t follow. So I try to lead with conviction, let my actions speak for themselves, and eventually, people gravitate toward my leadership.”"

The Panthers parted ways with some prominent locker room leaders during the offseason. And they were dealt another heavy blow when linebacker Luke Kuechly announced his retirement.

Others will need to stand up to assume leadership roles. And Bridgewater is already at the forefront of this movement.