Clemson University has officially announced the departure of Wes Goodwin as its defensive coordinator. Head coach Dabo Swinney made the announcement on Monday morning, confirming a change after Goodwin's three seasons in the role.
Swapping out staff has become somewhat of a trend at Clemson. Swinney noted how he had previously moved on from several assistant coaches over the last few years, indicating his desire for improvement. "After meeting with Coach Goodwin on Sunday evening, I have decided to make a change at our defensive coordinator position," Swinney stated. He expressed gratitude for Goodwin's years of service, praising his commitment and leadership.
Goodwin's departure follows a challenging 2024 season for Clemson's defense, which struggled to perform consistently. This past season saw the Tigers finish ranked 72nd overall among FBS programs. Specifically, they were ranked 85th for rushing defense, allowing over 160 yards per game. Such statistics starkly contrasted with the previous year, where Goodwin's defense finished eighth overall.
The performance issues were evident during the season-ending loss to Texas. Clemson's defense yielded 38 points and allowed 494 total yards, marking it as one of the toughest losses of the year. Goodwin’s defense allowed season highs for points and rushing yards against Texas, highlighting the systemic failures within the defensive unit.
Goodwin, who has spent 13 of the last 16 years with the Clemson program, rose from graduate assistant to defensive coordinator. He initially joined as an analyst under renowned former defensive coordinator Brent Venables before taking the reins when Venables left for Oklahoma. "Wes has been part of our program for 13 of the past 16 years and has played an instrumental part in all of our success," Swinney remarked.
Despite Goodwin's previous success, including leading the Tigers to tie for the national lead in turnovers forced and finishes within the top ten for total defense, his luck ran dry this season. During the 2024 season, the defense also ranked near the bottom nationally for allowing explosive plays. Clemson surrendered 73 plays of 20 or more yards, ranking them 126th out of 133 FBS teams.
Swinney indicated he would start the recruitment process for Goodwin's successor immediately, hoping to finalize the appointment before the end of January. "Our staff has been hard at work on our roster, and we look forward to solidifying our defensive coordinator position..." he added, underscoring the urgency of filling the role quickly.
The timing of Goodwin's departure coincides with vacancies for defensive coordinator positions elsewhere, particularly at the University of Oklahoma, where former coordinator Zac Alley departed for West Virginia. Rumors suggest Goodwin could be returning to an analyst role, but the official press release confirmed he will not be returning to Clemson's coaching staff.
Goodwin was under contract to earn $1.4 million for 2024. Following his termination without cause, Clemson owes him the remaining balance on his contract, roughly estimated at $3.1 million through 2027. Should he secure another job elsewhere, Clemson would adjust this payout based on the new salary he receives.
This shift marks not only Goodwin's exit from the program but also signifies Swinney's reevaluation of staff as the team aims to reclaim its position among the elite programs nationally. With the 2025 season approaching, Clemson fans remain hopeful for significant changes and improvement on defense.
Goodwin's future direction remains uncertain, but with the potential openings coaching offers across the country, he may find new opportunities, especially under coaches familiar with his work.
Clemson’s path forward begins with solidifying its coaching staff as it seeks to reverse the fortunes of the Tiger defense going forward.