Clemson has decided to make a change at defensive coordinator, parting ways with Wes Goodwin after a three-year tenure. Head coach Dabo Swinney confirmed the decision on Monday morning. Despite clinching a spot in the College Football Playoff by securing the ACC championship with a victory over SMU, the Tigers faced challenges on the defensive end, particularly in stopping the run. Throughout the season, Clemson struggled, allowing an average of 292 rushing yards per game, placing them at No. 77 in the national rankings. Overall, the defense yielded an average of 494 yards per game, slotting them at No. 69 in the nation.
The defensive woes persisted into the CFP, as Clemson surrendered 292 rushing yards in a 38-24 defeat against Texas. This marked a significant decline in performance for the Tigers, who had finished the 2023 season ranked No. 8 in total defense. Despite returning key defensive talents like Peter Woods, DeMonte Capehart, T.J. Parker, Barrett Carter, and Sammy Brown, the unit faced challenges throughout the season.
Looking ahead to the 2025 season, Woods, Parker, Brown, along with Wade Woodaz (who tied for the team lead in tackles) and Avieon Terrell are set to return, providing a foundation for the defensive lineup. Swinney expressed his intention to promptly commence the search for a new defensive coordinator, aiming to finalize the appointment by the end of the month or sooner. The coaching staff is focused on strengthening the defensive coordinator position to guide the talented defensive squad towards their objectives for the upcoming season.
Goodwin, aged 40, was promoted to the role of defensive coordinator and linebackers coach following Brett Venables’ departure to become the head coach at Oklahoma. Goodwin had served as a senior defensive assistant at Clemson for four years prior to his promotion. Before his time at Clemson, Goodwin spent three seasons as an assistant under head coach Bruce Arians with the Arizona Cardinals. He also worked as a graduate assistant and defensive analyst at Clemson for six seasons.
Goodwin’s termination was stated to be “without cause,” invoking the university’s buyout clause. Having been under contract through the 2026 season, Clemson is obligated to pay Goodwin $1.5 million in 2025 and $1.6 million in 2026, disbursed monthly. The buyout amount could potentially be offset by any salary Goodwin earns from his next position.
In terms of offensive prospects for the upcoming season, quarterback Cade Klubnik is set to return, bolstered by key receivers Antonio Williams, Bryant Wesco Jr., and T.J. Moore. The offensive lineup is poised to build on its strengths as they prepare for the challenges of the 2025 campaign.
