Which Bears players will step up in Eddie Goldman’s absence?

Our Bears Wire staff shares their thoughts on which player they believe will rise to the occasion in NT Eddie Goldman’s absence in 2020.

Ryan: NT John Jenkins

David Kohl-USA TODAY Sports

Talk about being thrown into the fire. With Eddie Goldman opting out, there will be an opportunity for several players to step up this year. John Jenkins has been around the block, having been drafted by the New Orleans Saints in the third round of the 2013 Draft. He started a career-high 12 games in 2015, collecting 49 combined tackles, one tackle for loss, and half a sack.

The Bears are welcoming him back, after playing in eight games with the team during the 2017 campaign. Last year, with Miami, Jenkins played in all 16 games – including five starts – and recorded 34 combined tackles with two tackles for loss and a sack. The Bears are going to feel the loss of Eddie Goldman this year, but at 6-foot-3, 330 pounds, Jenkins’ experience and productivity in seven years should close the gap.

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