
4. Eddie Goldman
Eddie Goldman gets no respect. To be fair, his position has been devalued and his efforts will typically go unnoticed statistically. Still, a 3-4 nose tackle does have value and he is likely one of the five best at his specific role in the NFL.
Goldman’s job is typically to hold up blockers at the line. He sets up Akiem Hicks with easier lanes to the quarterback. He keeps the second level free for Danny Trevathan.
However, last season he started to provide some impact as a pass rusher. He started winning one on ones and getting into the backfield. It got him on the field more the majority of nickel snaps, something that is not said of many 3-4 nose tackles. It can be argued the Bears had little other options. Still, Goldman was great in the role and he and Hicks became bash brothers.
The Athletic did a great breakdown on the potential extension talks that will happen at training camp this offseason. It is behind a paywall but worth the click to search for it. It mentioned that Goldman is going to demand high-level money compared to some other players at his role. How much the Bears value that role from Goldman will be interesting.