Bobby Golden

Bobby Golden's Biography

Robert Golden was born on September 13, 1990, and grew up to become a noted American football safety. His football journey kick-started in a big way when he was signed by the Pittsburgh Steelers, unperturbed by the fact that he was not picked in the NFL draft in 2012.

Golden hails from Fresno, California, where he attended Edison High School. While there, he was chosen for the Tacoma News Tribune Western 100, deservedly earning a place in its coveted ranking. This was partially due to his selection to the 2007 PrepStar Dream Team, further solidifying his status as a dynamic player. Additional laurels awarded to him included a place on the All-Valley First Team and the CalHiSports’ Second-team all-state. His prowess saw him winning a spot in the MaxPreps Division II All-State First Team and the esteemed U.S. Army All-American game.

His performance in highschool caught the attention of colleges across the US, and as a four-star recruit, he was in no short supply of opportunities. Receiving offers from UCLA, USC, Oregon State, and Oregon, he decided to attend the University of Arizona in 2008. Starting as a cornerback, he was perceived by many to be the potential successor to Antoine Cason. In his debut season of 2008, he made 13 total tackles with a forced fumble to his credit.

His performance only improved in 2009, where he recorded 41 tackles, intercepted two passes, returned one for a touchdown against Stanford, and defended three passes. Nevertheless, in a decisive move following the 2009 season, Mike Stoops, the head coach, switched Golden’s position to strong safety. He didn’t disappoint, making 60 tackles in the 2010 season and scoring one interception, one forced fumble, and defended 13 passes. Demonstrating consistency, in 2011, Golden made 69 tackles, scored one touchdown off an interception against Washington, and forced two fumbles while defending six passes.

Upon graduating from the University of Arizona, he entered the 2012 NFL draft. Despite showing up at the NFL combine and Arizona’s Pro Day workouts, he was overlooked in the draft. Unfazed, soon after, on April 29, Golden was picked by the Pittsburgh Steelers as an undrafted free agent in a three-year contract valued at $1.44 million, replete with a $5,000 signing bonus and guaranteed earnings of $5,000.

Golden’s NFL debut came in a match against the Denver Broncos, opening the season for his rookie year. His first career tackle came in a game against the Tennessee Titans, which ended in a 23-26 loss. Playing as a backup free safety behind the seasoned Pittsburgh Steelers veteran, Ryan Clark, he participated in 15 games and made 6 tackles in his inaugural year.

Golden’s contract was renewed on March 9, 2015, this time for one year and worth $1.54 million. He got his first start due to an injury to Will Allen, recording a personal best of 8 total tackles and a pass deflection. His performance entailed two further starts taking the place of the injured Allen. His first career interception was in a Week 14 victory over the Cincinnati Bengals, returning it for 27 yards.

Golden’s tenure with the Steelers was extended by three more years in 2016 with a $4.95 million contract, inclusive of a signing bonus of $1.25 million. Initially, he had a great run starting strong safety after Will Allen was not signed the previous season, but was eventually replaced by rookie Sean Davis. After the 2017 season, the Steelers released him.

On April 3, 2018, Golden was signed by the Kansas City Chiefs. However, he was later released on August 15, 2018, at his request, signaling the end of an eventful playing career. Though his time in football is over, Golden’s mark on American football and impressive accolades ensure his legacy continues.