Chicago Bears: 5 players to potentially replace Eddie Goldman

A few weeks ago, we did not see Eddie Goldman appear at Chicago Bears OTAs. Fans heard Matt Nagy first say that Goldman’s absence at minicamp was not excused.

With Goldman’s disappearance somewhat of an unknown at this point, everyone is wondering what’s going on with the Bears stalwart in the middle.

Now, a new report via Brad Biggs of The Chicago Tribune says that Goldman could be considering retirement. This would be a huge blow to the Bears’ defense in 2021 — a unit that looks to take it up a notch and return to their 2018 form.

Last year, Goldman opted out of the 2020 season but the team insisted he would be back this year. Now, no one is too sure.

What do the Chicago Bears do if Eddie Goldman calls it quits?

Goldman is extremely important to this Bears defense. He doesn’t get a lot of recognition, but he is one of the best interior linemen in football when it comes to stuffing the run. The Bears defense is a much better unit versus the ground game with Goldman on the field.

Last season, while Goldman was away, we saw many times where the Bears were gashed on the ground. Goldman’s absence sent a ripple effect throughout the unit, it seemed.

With training camp just a few weeks away, the Bears have to start thinking about a plan B. If there’s no more Goldman in Chicago, what do they do?

Fortunately, Chicago has options. There are a few options still out there in free agency, for starters. The Bears could also try to fill the need from within. With both options in mind, these five players could be a solid option to replace Goldman if he ends up retiring.