How ‘Humbled’ Oklahoma Coach Wes Goodwin’s Journey Makes Him ‘Fired Up’ for 2025
Oklahoma football has long been a storied program, and one of the most intriguing figures in the program’s future is Wes Goodwin, the Sooners’ defensive coordinator. As the team moves into the 2025 season, Goodwin’s journey from humble beginnings to becoming a key player in the resurgence of Oklahoma football is a tale that serves as a beacon of inspiration for both players and fans alike. Goodwin’s perspective on life and football is shaped by his past experiences, making him more passionate and “fired up” than ever to lead the Sooners through what promises to be an exciting and competitive season.
A Humble Beginning
Wes Goodwin’s story isn’t one of immediate recognition or fame. Unlike some coaches who come from high-profile programs or have big-name connections, Goodwin’s journey to the position he holds today is a product of persistence, resilience, and a deep passion for the game of football.
Born and raised in a small town, Goodwin was not someone who came from a football dynasty or prestigious program. His early years in football were marked not by outstanding physical attributes but by a fierce desire to learn, grow, and improve. He didn’t have the luxury of high-profile opportunities early in his career. Instead, his journey was built on gaining experience, taking on lesser-known roles, and steadily carving a niche for himself through sheer determination.
From an early age, Goodwin realized that success in football wasn’t guaranteed. But he also knew that hard work and a never-give-up attitude could carry him through challenges. He spent years learning under a variety of coaches and mentors, each of whom shaped his understanding of the game. Rather than seeking immediate recognition, Goodwin chose the path of continual growth, and over time, this approach began to pay off.
A Commitment to Work Ethic and Adaptability
One of the defining traits of Wes Goodwin’s coaching philosophy is his work ethic. Over the years, he has been known to dedicate countless hours to refining his craft, constantly analyzing game tape, and seeking out ways to improve both as a coach and a leader. Goodwin’s commitment to preparation is second to none. His humble journey to becoming a coach who now commands a prominent defensive unit at Oklahoma stems from his understanding that success isn’t about taking shortcuts but about doing the right things day in and day out.
Goodwin’s willingness to start at the bottom and work his way up has also shaped how he views the game. He didn’t jump from one high-profile coaching job to another. Instead, he spent years grinding in various assistant roles and learning about different facets of the game. This adaptability and willingness to take on new challenges have equipped him to be a versatile coach who isn’t afraid of stepping outside his comfort zone.
As a defensive coordinator, Goodwin’s style is one rooted in discipline, aggression, and adaptability. His background, characterized by a series of jobs that tested his limits and pushed him to think critically about every aspect of football, has helped him develop a defensive mindset that is both flexible and aggressive. His ability to adapt to the changing landscape of college football, particularly in the Big 12, has proven to be a key asset for Oklahoma.
Resilience and Overcoming Adversity
Throughout his career, Goodwin has faced numerous challenges. Every coach, no matter how successful, encounters obstacles along the way, and Goodwin’s career has been no different. However, what sets him apart is his resilience and ability to turn setbacks into fuel for future success.
The early years in Goodwin’s career were marked by challenges that could have discouraged many. But instead of letting these hurdles define him, Goodwin used each challenge as an opportunity to grow. Whether it was taking on a coaching role with little experience or dealing with the ups and downs of a competitive football season, Goodwin’s journey has been about learning from each experience and using those lessons to become better.
As he looks toward the 2025 season, Goodwin’s resilience is something that excites him. He is aware of the challenges that lie ahead, especially as he leads Oklahoma’s defense in one of the most competitive conferences in college football. But Goodwin’s ability to overcome adversity, both in his career and in life, has instilled in him a sense of confidence and optimism. He’s not intimidated by the task ahead; instead, he’s ready to face it head-on, armed with the knowledge and experience he has gained along the way.
The Importance of Relationships
One of the biggest lessons Wes Goodwin learned during his career is the importance of relationships in the coaching profession. Coaching is not just about calling plays or making strategic decisions—it’s about building trust with players and creating a culture that fosters growth and success. Goodwin has always placed a high value on relationships, both with his coaching staff and his players.
From his early days as a coach, Goodwin has emphasized the importance of building strong, lasting connections with the athletes he works with. He believes that football is a team sport, and for a team to succeed, everyone needs to be on the same page. This means understanding each player’s strengths, weaknesses, and unique personality. Goodwin works hard to ensure that his players feel supported both on and off the field, fostering an environment where they can thrive.
As he prepares for the 2025 season, Goodwin’s commitment to building relationships with his players will be crucial. Oklahoma’s defense is entering a new era, and much of the success will depend on how well the team gels both on and off the field. Goodwin’s emphasis on building a family-like atmosphere, where players are encouraged to support one another, is a philosophy that has proven successful throughout his career.
‘Fired Up’ for the 2025 Season
As the 2025 season approaches, Wes Goodwin is more motivated than ever. The combination of his humble journey, his resilience, his ability to adapt, and his focus on relationships has him “fired up” for the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead. Oklahoma’s defense is looking to make a significant jump in performance, and Goodwin’s leadership will play a pivotal role in this.
For Goodwin, the 2025 season represents a chance to take everything he has learned throughout his career and apply it to a new challenge. Oklahoma has set high expectations for the upcoming season, and Goodwin is ready to lead the defense toward those goals. The lessons learned from his humble beginnings, paired with his passion for the game, have him excited for what’s to come.
“I’ve been through a lot to get to this point,” Goodwin said in a recent interview. “It’s been a journey, and every step of it has made me who I am today. I’m fired up for what’s ahead. We have a great group of players, and I can’t wait to see how they grow. The work we’ve put in over the past few seasons is starting to pay off, and I’m excited to see where it can take us.”
Looking Ahead
As Oklahoma football heads into the 2025 season, Wes Goodwin’s leadership will be a defining factor in the team’s success. His journey has shaped him into a coach who values hard work, adaptability, and building meaningful relationships. These qualities, combined with his passion and drive, make him the perfect coach to help Oklahoma reach new heights.
For Goodwin, the journey is far from over. He knows that the road ahead will present new challenges and opportunities, but he’s ready to face them with the same determination that has defined his career. As he leads the Sooners into the 2025 season, his “humbled” journey continues to fuel his excitement and drive, and his passion for coaching will undoubtedly inspire both his players and fans alike.
The Oklahoma Sooners are fortunate to have Wes Goodwin leading their defense as they look to build on their success and continue their quest for a Big 12 championship and beyond. With Goodwin at the helm, the future is bright for Oklahoma football.
