CLEMSON, S.C. — Wes Goodwin has been fired as Clemson's defensive coordinator after three seasons, Tigers coach Dabo Swinney announced Monday.

Goodwin was making $1.4 million in total salary in 2024, according to a copy of his most recent contract obtained by The State. He was set to earn $1.5 million in 2025-26 and $1.6 million in 2026-27 under a three-year deal approved last February.

Clemson has fired defensive coordinator Wes Goodwin after the Tigers' defense took a significant step back this past season, especially against the run.

Goodwin had been the Tigers defensive coordinator since December 2021after being promoted from his role as a little-known analyst.

Clemson head football coach Dabo Swinney announced Monday that Wes Goodwin will not return to Clemson’s coaching staff for the 2025 season.

Clemson defensive coordinator Wes Goodwin will not return for the Tigers in 2025, the university announced Monday. Goodwin spent three seasons as Clemson's defensive coordinator after replacing Brent Venables when he left for Oklahoma.

Clemson fired defensive coordinator Wes Goodwin on Monday. Here's how much the school will owe Goodwin, who had two years left on his contract.

Dabo Swinney released a statement on the decision on Monday. He thanked Wes Goodwin for everything that he did for the Clemson football team. Goodwin has been with the Tigers for quite a while, so this wasn't an easy decision.

At the same time his job status at Clemson has come into question after a poor 2024 season, Goodwin also has been linked to the defensive coordinator job at Oklahoma, where former star Clemson DC Brent Venables is entering his fourth year as coach.

Wes Goodwin had served as Clemson's defensive coordinator for three seasons, and the unit has been declining, especially on run defense.

Dabo Swinney hopes to fill Clemson's defensive coordinator job this month. Here's why Swinney will likely target an experienced, external coach.