In a surprising turn of events, the Falcons have reinstated veteran defensive tackle Eddie Goldman from the reserve/retired list, the team announced.
The former Bears defender signed with Atlanta last Summer but retired less than two weeks later, prompting many jokes.
A second-round pick from the 2015 NFL draft, Goldman has played in 81 career games, starting 73 of them in his seven seasons with the Bears. After finishing out his rookie contract, he signed a lucrative four-year deal to stay in Chicago. He opted out of the COVID season in 2020 but returned in 2021, playing in 14 games before the Bears released him.
Goldman’s unexpected addition gives the Falcons’ defensive line another able body to rotate with Grady Jarrett, David Onyemata, and Ta’Quon Graham. Don’t look now, but it actually looks like a competent group.
Eddie Goldman is a proven commodity. Over his career, he’s totaled 13 sacks, 18 tackles for a loss, and 21 quarterback hits. The Falcons won’t be expecting gaudy sack totals, but Goldman will be a productive piece for what should be a much-improved defense.
The defensive line could use one more veteran body for the rotation, but the Falcons have to be feeling good where they currently stand. Adding a draft pick to learn under those experienced defenders could also prove beneficial. Though unexpected, Eddie Goldman’s return is certainly welcomed.
Welcome back to Atlanta, Eddie Goldman!
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