Dabo Swinney Addresses Decision to Part Ways with Clemson Defensive Coordinator Wes Goodwin
Clemson football announced Monday morning that defensive coordinator Wes Goodwin will not return for the 2025 season, marking a significant change for the program. Once renowned for its dominant defense during its dynasty years, Clemson has struggled to recapture that same level of excellence in recent seasons.
Head coach Dabo Swinney, who will now lead the search for a new defensive coordinator, released a statement thanking Goodwin for his contributions.
“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 dedication, as well as the relentless work ethic with which he approached his job every day. Wes has been a part of our program for 13 of the past 16 years and played an instrumental role in our success. I love Wes and his family and wish him all the best as he continues his journey. I know he has a bright future ahead.”
Goodwin’s history with Clemson spans over a decade, beginning in 2009 before a stint with the NFL’s Arizona Cardinals. He returned to Clemson in 2018 as a senior defensive analyst and was promoted to defensive coordinator in 2022.
Despite a solid 2024 season that saw the Tigers win the ACC Championship and secure a College Football Playoff berth, the team fell short of the high standards set during their playoff dominance in previous years. Swinney has made it clear that changes are necessary to return to championship form.
The coaching search is already underway, with Swinney aiming to fill the position quickly to avoid losing potential candidates.
“I will start the interview process immediately and hope to have our new defensive coordinator named by the end of the month or sooner,” Swinney stated. “Our staff has been hard at work on our roster, and we look forward to solidifying our defensive coordinator position to lead this talented group as we pursue our goals for 2025.”
Goodwin, who began his coaching career at Mississippi State in 2005, now enters the job market with extensive experience at both the collegiate and professional levels.
As Clemson looks ahead to 2025, the program is committed to making the changes needed to restore its status as a national powerhouse. Swinney’s decision is a clear signal that the Tigers are determined to return to their former glory.
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