Chicago Bears: How Ryan Pace turned the 2020 season into a nightmare

Goldman’s absence was bigger than first thought

Because of COVID-19, the NFL gave the players the chance to opt out of the 2020 season. One of those players was defensive lineman Eddie Goldman. With Goldman stuffing the middle of the line, the Chicago Bears defense was one of the top run-stopping units in the league.

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Goldman did a great job of making life easier for the two inside linebackers, Danny Trevathan and Roquan Smith. Goldman slows the runners down and moves them to Trevathan and Smith.

Without Goldman, the Bears’ rushing attack has taken a hit. After finishing in the top ten against the run the last few seasons, they rank 17th this season.

There were available free agents like Damon Harrison aka “Snacks” who could help the defense. Harrison even expressed interest in coming to Chicago. Instead, the Bears decided to move defensive end, Bilal Nichols, over to the nose. It was a learning experience for him and while he’s improved, some key runs were made against the defense.

Nichols was a good defensive end who was getting better. Suddenly, he had to learn a new position. He deserves praise for taking on the challenge, but the Bears defense would be better with an experienced guy in the middle. That means Nichols would be in a position he’s comfortable with and playing even better.

Pace had a chance to keep some continuity along the defensive line but decided to stand pat. That decision hurt the defense.