What does each offseason acquisition bring to the Falcons: Eddie Goldman

The Falcons have added a ton of new pieces this offseason, mostly coming on the defensive side of the ball and, more specifically, along the front. This continues my series of exploring what each offseason acquisition brings to the Falcons, moving on to one that Atlanta actually acquired last year but rejoins the club this season — Eddie Goldman.

Check out any other parts of the series if you’ve missed them!

• What does Jessie Bates bring to the Falcons? 
• What does Calais Campbell bring to the Falcons?
• What does David Onyemata bring to the Falcons? 
• What does Kaden Elliss bring to the Falcons?
• What does Bud Dupree bring to the Falcons?
• What does Jeff Okudah bring to the Falcons?
• What does Jonnu Smith bring to the Falcons?
• What does Taylor Henicke bring to the Falcons?
• What does Mack Hollins bring to the Falcons?
• What does Scotty Miller bring to the Falcons?
• What does Tae Davis bring to the Falcons?

Eddie Goldman

The 6-4, 336-pound Goldman has never taken a snap for the club and has only appeared in 14 NFL games since 2019. It’s hard to gauge his standing with the team.

After sitting out the COVID-19 season in 2020, he returned the following season but had the worst season of his career, then signed with Atlanta in July of 2022 before deciding to retire 13 days after inking a deal.

Still, Arthur Smith has stated there’s an understanding between the two sides, that there is a ‘return-to-play’ plan for Goldman. He has missed a ton of time but is still only 29-years-old. There’s reason to be optimistic that he can provide value as a rotational piece along the defensive front. His role is obvious — a run-stopping nose tackle that can push the pocket in pass rushing situations.

Goldman logged a sack and 22 tackles in 14 games for the Bears two seasons ago; I would imagine similar results in 2023 if he even makes the team, which isn’t guaranteed. Following a year-long hiatus, his biggest competition is Timmy Horne. The youngster had impressive moments last year and could beat out the veteran if he doesn’t show up to training camp in shape.

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Photographer: Patrick Gorski/Icon Sportswire