The Clemson Tigers made a significant shift in their coaching staff this offseason by parting ways with defensive coordinator Wes Goodwin.
Goodwin joined the program back in 2009 as a graduate assistant and held that role until 2011. He then served as a defensive analyst from 2012 to 2014 before moving to the NFL, where he spent three years as an assistant to the head coach with the Arizona Cardinals under Bruce Arians.
After Arians’ departure, Goodwin returned to Clemson in 2018, taking on the role of senior defensive assistant until 2021. From 2022 to 2024, he served as the defensive coordinator under Dabo Swinney, while also coaching the linebackers.
Despite losing his position this offseason, Goodwin reflects positively on his time with the program. Recently, he shared his thoughts on both the highs and lows of his experience and how they’ve shaped him as a coach.
“We had some really great moments,” Goodwin said, according to Alexander Turri of Clemson Wire. “Winning two ACC championships in three years and going to the College Football Playoff this year, as well as the Orange Bowl in my first season. You always have to be true to yourself in these roles.”
Under Swinney’s leadership, Clemson has been recognized for its strong defenses. However, in 2024, they fell short of their usual high standards, particularly struggling against the run by allowing over 160 yards per game—their worst run defense performance since 2011. In their College Football Playoff matchup against the Texas Longhorns, they were overwhelmed with 292 rushing yards.
This game marked Goodwin’s final outing as defensive coordinator, and he shared his insights on dealing with the transition. “It’s already hard enough being yourself, so don’t try to be someone else,” he advised. “The key is to block out the outside noise and focus on the task at hand while keeping your circle small. There are only a few people in this profession you can truly trust.”
Goodwin has now joined a trusted ally, taking a position on the coaching staff of Brent Venables, who was Clemson’s defensive coordinator before him. He is now the assistant outside linebackers and linebackers coach for the Oklahoma Sooners, collaborating with familiar faces from their time together at Clemson.
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