The Chicago Bears played the 2020 season without one of their most important defensive players in nose tackle Eddie Goldman, who opted out of the season due to COVID-19 concerns.
Goldman’s absence was felt along the defensive front, primarily in run defense, where the Bears relied on Bilal Nichols and John Jenkins to fill the large void left by him.
While the hope is that things will be different heading into the 2021 season, the NFL continues to abide by similar safety protocols to ensure player safety as the COVID-19 vaccine is distributed throughout the country.
So there’s no guarantee that Goldman will return in 2021, but new defensive coordinator Sean Desai is hopeful for his return, although he hasn’t heard an official word.
Bears DC Sean Desai believes DT Eddie Goldman will be back for the 2021 season, but hasn't heard official word.
— Jason Lieser (@JasonLieser) February 15, 2021
Goldman is one of the most underrated players on the Bears, as he’s done a lot of the dirty work in the trenches that’s gone unnoticed at times – until last season, when Goldman wasn’t playing.
If Goldman were to return in 2021, as Desai is optimistic he will, it would be a huge boost to Chicago’s defensive line, which would feature the trio of Akiem Hicks, Goldman, and Nichols.
