Dallas Cowboys star C.J. Goodwin recently made official his retirement after an incredible 12-year NFL career that defied expectations and proved doubters wrong. Starting as an undrafted free agent with Pittsburgh Steelers back in 2014, Goodwin proved critics wrong while winning eight seasons on Dallas’ roster before quietly sharing his news during an event this weekend instead of holding an official press conference to do it.
Goodwin announced his decision at his ninth annual PEGA Foundation All-Star Sports Camp where he spoke to sports reporter Rob Metzger. Acknowledging Goodwin’s years of hard work and perseverance, family and friends gathered after to honor and commemorate Goodwin at an intimate private celebration event following this announcement.
Over the years, Goodwin carved out ten seasons on active NFL rosters. His early days involved bouncing between practice squads and teams—from the Steelers to the Atlanta Falcons, where he played defense including appearances in the Super Bowl, before brief stints with the Arizona Cardinals, New York Giants, San Francisco 49ers, and Cincinnati Bengals. It wasn’t until the Cowboys signed him in 2018 that he found a lasting home, staying with Dallas through the 2025 season.
Throughout his career, Goodwin appeared in 136 games, accumulating 94 tackles and two forced fumbles alongside thousands of special teams snaps that contributed significantly, even if they rarely made headlines.
C.J. Goodwin’s Impact on the Cowboys
By the time the Cowboys brought Goodwin on board, he had already worn six different uniforms. Dallas proved to be the perfect fit, as he suited up for 108 games, second only in tenure on the team to Dak Prescott. Goodwin’s value came not from flash but from consistent, dependable special teams play. Since 2019, he has been one of the most reliable special teams players on the roster, ranking ninth all-time in franchise history for special teams tackles and participating in over 2,200 special teams plays.
Goodwin made history for Dallas Cowboys fans when, starting in 2021, he led in special teams tackles for three consecutive years — an achievement no other Dallas player had yet accomplished. That same year he was honored when named one of six team captains – serving as both special teams captain alongside Brandon Aubrey that season he recorded 18 special teams tackles!
Goodwin’s retirement leaves the Cowboys grappling with how best to fill his role on special teams and his absence can only further compound that challenge. New addition safety P.J. Locke brings experience that may prove helpful as special teams coordinator Nick Sorensen manages transition from eight seasons of Goodwin’s steady presence.