Eddie Goldman Growing, Improving As Bears' Nose Tackle
By Chris Emma—
LAKE FOREST, Ill. (CBS) -- There's something to be said for dominance at defensive tackle, often a position that doesn't merit glory.
Specifically in a 3-4 defense, the nose tackle serves as a space eater of sorts, absorbing double teams and filling gaps for blitzing linebackers. To show a physical superiority in this position makes quite the statement. Names like Vince Wilfork and Casey Hampton reign supreme as the all-time greats in one of the least glamorous jobs in football.
The 21-year-old Eddie Goldman wants to be remembered, too.
"That's the goal -- definitely," Goldman said on Thursday.
During training camp in Bourbonnais, the rookie Goldman spoke of his admiration of Bears teammate Jeremiah Ratliff's play. At that time, Ratliff split time filling the role of nose tackle and lining up next to Goldman as an end. But Ratliff has since moved on from the organization.
Ever since, the spotlight has been on Goldman, who was drafted out of Florida State in the second round of the 2015 NFL Draft. He was trusted by the Bears to become their nose tackle of the future for coordinator Vic Fangio's 3-4 defense.
"His ability to improve is what impresses me the most," Fangio said of Goldman.
In his rookie year, Goldman has compiled 4.5 sacks, a number that doesn't properly reflect his steady growth. Goldman has become more of a force in the middle, getting through the offensive line and becoming a disruption.
Yet, the numbers frustrate Goldman, who's been credited with 22 tackles on the season, a figure he wishes would be higher.
"I could've been even more productive," Goldman said. "I wouldn't say I'm satisfied."
For Fangio, judgement of Goldman is different. He sees the way that Goldman is improving his technique and learning how to get greater burst off the snap.
"He's been getting better," Fangio said. "I think that's what's been impressing me the most, is that he's been getting better throughout the season, from game to game, learning his craft a little bit better."
Ever since being thrust into an important role in the Bears' defense, Goldman's play has grown. He's the reliable gap-filler who Fangio desires to anchor his schemes. Goldman wants more than that. He hopes that production shows in sacks, tackles and disruptions.
More so than that, Goldman wants to be known as one of the best to ever play this role.
"I want to make my own name," Goldman said. "I want to be my own player."
Chris Emma covers the Chicago sports scene and more for CBSChicago.com. Follow him on Twitter @CEmma670 and like his Facebook page.
