Chicago Bears Sign DT Mike Pennel

The Chicago Bears just wrapped up their annual mandatory mini-camp at Halas Hall this past week. Where most players were present, one surprising name was not seen or heard from anywhere - veteran and stud nose tackle Eddie Goldman. He has not played since the fall of 2019 due to opting out of the 2020 regular season.

It is notable to mention Matt Nagy declared Eddie Goldman’s absence as “unexcused.” With such uncertainty at nose tackle, the Bears decided to take action. They have signed veteran D-lineman Mike Pennel to a one-year deal, per Pennel’s own agent Andy Simms.

Mike Pennel has spent the last two seasons playing for the Kansas City Chiefs. He’s also spent time, and started for the New York Jets as well as the Green Bay Packers. It’s notable to mention he’s started as a nose tackle and as a 5-tech end, so he’ll bring some much needed versatility and a massive body to plug in at DT if Eddie Goldman’s absence is extended. Or, just great depth for the Bears’ D-line in general.

For a guy who’s seen time as end, shade, and nose tackle, Pennel graded out rather well. Here’s Brad Spielberger with some analysis on the Bears’ latest signing.

The expectation is for Eddie Goldman to attend training camp as scheduled. However, he was also expected at mandatory OTA’s, only to be a complete no-show. As more news breaks, we’ll have you all covered here at Windy City Gridiron.