C.J. Goodwin Bio
Charaun Jareé Goodwin is an American professional football cornerback for the Dallas Cowboys of the National Football League (NFL). He was signed by the Pittsburgh Steelers as an undrafted free agent following the 2014 NFL draft. Goodwin played college basketball for the Bethany Bison and college football for the Fairmont State Fighting Falcons and the California Vulcans.
Early Life and Background
Charaun Jareé Goodwin was born on February 4, 1990, in Wheeling, West Virginia, to Yvette Goodwin-Rowe and Perry Galloway Jr. He attended The Linsly School in Wheeling, where he did not play football until his senior year, during which he started at wide receiver. In addition to football, Goodwin also competed in track and basketball, showcasing his athletic versatility from a young age. After graduating from high school, he attended Bethany College, where he played basketball for two seasons before transferring to Fairmont State University.
Path to American Football
At Fairmont State University, Goodwin was encouraged by his father and college roommate, future NFL player Dewey McDonald, to join the football team. He made an immediate impact, recording impressive statistics in his first few games. After a successful season, he received a scholarship to continue playing for Fairmont. Following a coaching change, he transferred to California University of Pennsylvania, where he continued to play wide receiver. Goodwin’s college football career was marked by significant achievements, including a notable touchdown reception against Kutztown.
C.J. Goodwin Career
Early Career (2014-2015)
After finishing his collegiate career, Goodwin entered the 2014 NFL draft but went undrafted. He signed with the Pittsburgh Steelers as an undrafted rookie free agent on June 4, 2014. Although he was released shortly after, he was added to the practice squad. Goodwin’s early career was characterized by his transition from wide receiver to cornerback, which began during his time with the Atlanta Falcons.
Breakthrough (2016-2020)
Goodwin’s breakthrough came during his time with the Atlanta Falcons, where he played in 14 games in 2016, recording 7 defensive tackles and contributing significantly on special teams. He was part of the Falcons team that reached Super Bowl LI, where they faced the New England Patriots. In 2019, Goodwin appeared in all 16 games for the Dallas Cowboys for the first time in his career, becoming a key player on special teams. He made significant contributions, including recovering an onside kick in a crucial game against the Atlanta Falcons.
Notable Works and Milestones
Goodwin has established himself as a reliable special teams player, leading the Dallas Cowboys in special teams tackles for three consecutive seasons. His consistency and performance have made him a valuable asset to the team.
C.J. Goodwin Award Nominations
Throughout his career, C.J. Goodwin has not received any major award nominations, but his contributions to his teams, particularly in special teams, have been recognized by coaches and teammates.
C.J. Goodwin Awards Won
C.J. Goodwin has not won any major awards during his career, but his impact on the field, especially in special teams, has been acknowledged within the NFL community.
C.J. Goodwin Family
C.J. Goodwin is the son of Yvette Goodwin-Rowe and Perry Galloway Jr. He has a daughter, although further details about his family life are not publicly available.
Personal Life
Off the field, Goodwin founded the PeGa Foundation, a nonprofit mentoring organization named in honor of his late father. The foundation is based in Wheeling, West Virginia, and focuses on mentoring youth and volunteering in schools and youth groups across the country. Goodwin dedicates much of his free time to these philanthropic efforts, reflecting his commitment to giving back to his community.