Early years

Goodwin was born in Columbia, South Carolina. He attended Lower Richland High School in Hopkins, South Carolina and was a student and a letterman in football. In football, he was an all-conference selection.

College career

He enrolled in the University of Michigan, and played for the Michigan Wolverines football team from 1998 to 2001.

Professional career

New York Jets

Goodwin was selected in the fifth round, 154th overall in the 2002 NFL Draft by the New York Jets.

New Orleans Saints

After the 2005 season, Goodwin was a free agent, and signed with the New Orleans Saints. He was the Saints' starting center during their 2009 Super Bowl season and made the Pro Bowl as a reserve in 2010.

San Francisco 49ers

On August 3, 2011, Goodwin signed with the San Francisco 49ers as an unrestricted free agent. He started all 16 games during the season. Goodwin also participated on the postseason roster when meeting his former team in the 2011 Divisional Round, the Saints. The 49ers defeated the Saints in the divisional round. The 49ers would eventually lose the 2011 NFC Championship to the Giants in overtime.

Goodwin received the Bobb McKittrick Award which is given annually to the 49ers offensive lineman who best represents the courage, intensity and sacrifice displayed by the longtime offensive line coach who spent 21 years with the 49ers. The award was established by the 49ers in 1999, and is voted on by the offensive line.

Goodwin started every game at center during his three years with the 49ers.

New Orleans Saints (second stint)

On June 3, 2014, Goodwin returned to New Orleans, signing a one year contract. He was named starting center ahead of second-year center Tim Lelito. In the Week 3 win against the Minnesota Vikings he left the game during the third quarter due to an ankle sprain.

Personal

Goodwin's older brother, Harold, is the offensive coordinator of the Arizona Cardinals.

[ Source: Wikipedia ]