Clemson is parting ways with defensive coordinator Wes Goodwin, as the Tigers officially announced the change on Monday morning. Goodwin will not be returning for the 2025 season. While Clemson built its reputation on a dominant defense during its championship years, it has struggled to maintain that level of play since Dabo Swinney took over as head coach. Now, Swinney faces the task of finding a new defensive coordinator.
Swinney released a statement expressing his gratitude to Goodwin for his contributions to the program. Despite the difficult decision, he acknowledged Goodwin’s significant role in the Tigers’ success over the past 13 years.
“After meeting with Coach Goodwin on Sunday evening, I have decided to make a change at our defensive coordinator position,” Swinney said. “I want to thank Wes for his character, commitment, leadership, and relentless work ethic. He’s been with us for 13 of the last 16 years and played an instrumental part in our success. I wish him the best as he continues his career and know he has a bright future ahead.”
Swinney is now prioritizing the search for a new defensive coordinator and plans to begin the interview process promptly. He hopes to name a new hire by the end of the month or sooner.
Goodwin, who started his coaching career at Mississippi State in 2005, joined Clemson in 2009 before spending some time with the Arizona Cardinals in the NFL. He returned to the Tigers in 2018 as a senior defensive analyst and became defensive coordinator in 2022. Now, he enters the job market with considerable coaching experience.
Clemson had a solid 2024 season, winning the ACC title and making the College Football Playoff, though it was clear that the team did not match the level of past playoff squads. With the goal of returning to its former dominance, Swinney is making changes to the coaching staff to help guide the team forward.
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