Eddie Goldman Un-retires to Re-join the Falcons
One of our favorite funny bits last year was the playful following of how many former Chicago Bears were on the Atlanta Falcons. Because former Bears GM Ryan Pace was among the many who made the exodus to Atlanta. But after some offseason changes, that number — once in double figures — has dwindled a bit. However, one notable ex-Bears standout is returning to Atlanta.
Less than one year after announcing his retirement, defensive tackle Eddie Goldman is back in black (and red … which are the Falcons’ colors):
Last July, Goldman became the billionth ex-Bear to join the Falcons (by my unofficial count) last offseason. But less than two weeks later, Goldman made the decision to retire. Goldman’s retirement came at the end of a weird stretch of years. It began with him opting out of playing in 2020. Even after the Bears were expecting him back, Goldman was a no-show at mandatory minicamp in 2021. This led to questions if he would come back at all. It was an awkward time, but a return to football was eventually in the cards for Goldman. But Goldman not looking like his old self meant his time in Chicago was ending soon. And after failing to find a trade partner, GM Ryan Poles eventually cut Goldman. Now, Goldman is angling for a return at age 29 for what would be his seventh season as a pro.
Goldman’s first six years were spent in Chicago, where he was an anchor at nose tackle for some great Bears defenses. Some of you might be thinking about it, so I’ll address it before you go down that rabbit hole. No, I wouldn’t have seen Goldman as a fit for this Bears team. And yes, I say that as someone who is cognizant of the defense’s needs. Even still … I’m wishing him good luck in his future endeavors. Particularly in games against the Carolina Panthers. It would help tremendously if Goldman can guide the Falcons to wins in those two divisional games. Remember, the Bears have the Panthers’ first-round draft pick in 2024. So our two favorite teams this coming season will be the Bears and whoever is playing the Falcons. Goldman helping out some old friends would be greatly appreciated in these parts. Just saying.
