The Bears report to training camp in earnest this week, and tensions and uncertainty are running high. Amid concerns over the ongoing COVID-19 outbreak, one important stalwart will not be in attendance.
Fifth-year nose tackle Eddie Goldman is opting out of the 2020 season, according to NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport. While now temporarily not in line with a lucrative contract signed last fall, Goldman’s decision coincides with medical apprehension. The 26-year-old has had issues with asthma in the past. A respiratory affliction like the coronavirus could only exacerbate such an issue. Due to that, Goldman has grounds for full medical exemption and should receive a $350,000 stipend for the fall.