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 (first stint) After the 2005 season, Goodwin was a
free agent, and signed with the New Orleans Saints. He was the Saints' starting center from 2008 to 2010, and during their 2009 Super Bowl season and made his first
Pro Bowl.. Goodwin after another notable year was named to his second straight Pro Bowl in 2010, while helping the Saints, coming off their Super Bowl, win their first 13 games of the season.
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 and earned his third consecutive Pro Bowl. 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. In 2012 Goodwin was elected to his fourth consecutive and final Pro Bowl. At the end of the 2012 season, the 49ers with Goodwin's help appeared in
Super Bowl XLVII, but the 49ers fell to the
Baltimore Ravens by a score of 34–31. 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 life==