Clemson moves on from Wes Goodwin as defensive coordinator
Clemson Parts Ways with Defensive Coordinator Wes Goodwin Following Challenging Season
Clemson head coach Dabo Swinney has made a pivotal decision for the future of the Tigers' football program, opting to part ways with defensive coordinator Wes Goodwin. According to multiple reports, Goodwin has been informed he will not return to oversee Clemson’s defense in 2025. The move comes on the heels of a disappointing 2024 season in which the Tigers’ defense struggled significantly, raising questions about the direction and leadership of the unit.
Goodwin, who took over as defensive coordinator following Brent Venables’ departure to Oklahoma after the 2021 season, experienced both highs and lows during his tenure. While he managed to lead Clemson to the top of the ACC in total defense in 2023, the 2024 season marked a steep decline. The Tigers’ defense ranked ninth in the ACC and 69th nationally in total defense, allowing an average of 374.1 yards per game.
Particularly troubling was Clemson’s inability to stop the run, a cornerstone of their defensive identity in years past. The Tigers gave up an average of 160.7 rushing yards per game and 4.7 yards per carry—both metrics representing the program’s worst performances in decades. Adding to the woes was the defense's vulnerability to explosive plays, conceding 73 plays of 20 or more yards over the season, which tied for 126th nationally.
Despite these struggles, Goodwin’s tenure was not without its highlights. His leadership in 2023 helped the Tigers maintain their defensive prowess after Venables’ departure, proving his potential in a challenging role. However, the regression in 2024 overshadowed past successes, ultimately leading Swinney to make the difficult decision to move in a new direction.
The change reflects Swinney’s commitment to maintaining Clemson’s status as a powerhouse in college football. Known for consistently fielding elite defenses under Venables, the Tigers struggled to meet those standards in Goodwin’s final season. The search for a new defensive coordinator will likely focus on finding a leader capable of restoring the unit's dominance and addressing the weaknesses exposed this past year.
This marks a critical juncture for Clemson, as the program looks to rebound and re-establish its reputation as one of the most formidable teams in the nation. With Swinney at the helm, fans will hope this change is the first step in revitalizing the Tigers’ championship aspirations.
