Durkin's Breakdown: DT Eddie Goldman
By Dan Durkin--
(CBS) With several options available to them at the top of the second round, the Bears found a defensive line prospect to help anchor their new 30-front, selecting Florida State defensive tackle Eddie Goldman on Friday night.
The Bears will be multiple in their fronts under coach John Fox and defensive coordinator Vic Fangio, so Goldman's versatility and ability to play multiple techniques along the defensive line is crucial. In his three years at Florida State, he played for three different defensive coordinators. Consequently, he played both inside and outside in their four-man fronts and also manned the nose in their three-man fronts.
Goldman's biggest contributions came in the run game. He's very stout and powerful at the point of attack. He shows the ability to anchor when two-gapping and has a powerful punch to strike and separate off the snap. He plays with vision to locate the ball-carrier and has lateral movement skills to pursue down the line of scrimmage on plays outside of his gap.
While still developing as a pass rusher, the 336-pound Goldman shows quickness off the snap and the ability to bend and play with low pads. He's primarily a power rusher who uses swipes and slap-and-go moves to separate from blockers. He needs to evolve as a hand fighter and learn to get "skinny" by narrowing his shoulders as he shoots gaps.
Considering the amount of sub packages the Bears anticipate running -- 60-plus percent, per general manager Ryan Pace -- this fall, Goldman will need to prove he can consistently press the pocket on his rushes in order to become a three-down player.
Goldman was unable to workout at the NFL Scouting Combine due to an ankle injury. However, his Pro Day numbers -- particularly speed and agility drills -- were impressive. He clocked a 5.16 unofficial 40-yard dash and showed fluid change-of-direction skills.
As the Bears seek different athletic profiles and versatile skill sets for their new defensive front, Goldman's an intriguing prospect with a nice combination of length, power and quickness.
Dan Durkin covers the Bears for CBSChicago.com and is a frequent contributor to 670 The Score. Follow him on Twitter at @djdurkin.
