Broncos Bet on Ex Clemson Tiger Hoping for One Last Shot at the League

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Jeremy Lockett | Last updated Jun 17, 2025 10:16 PM ET

Mario Goodrich’s journey back to the NFL has taken him from Clemson’s championship glory to the league, then to the grind of the UFL — but the former Tiger is once again heading to the big stage. The Denver Broncos are signing the 6-foot, 186-pound cornerback, giving the former Clemson standout another chance to secure a spot in the NFL.

Goodrich most recently suited up for the Birmingham Stallions in the United Football League, where he played through injury and still managed to be one of the most consistent corners in the league.

In just seven games (including the playoffs), Goodrich tallied 15 tackles, four pass breakups, and a pair of game-changing forced fumbles—one of which helped seal a comeback win over the Houston Roughnecks. His physical style and 66.3 coverage grade from PFF caught the attention of NFL scouts once again.

Before his UFL stint, Goodrich spent time with both the Philadelphia Eagles and New York Giants after going undrafted in 2022. He saw action in four games with the Eagles, totaling five tackles, and was with the Giants during the 2024 preseason before being released with an injury designation.

At Clemson, Goodrich developed into a top-tier defensive back, playing in 47 games and winning a national championship as a freshman. He saved his best season for last, earning first-team All-ACC honors and being named MVP of the 2021 Cheez-It Bowl. He finished his career with 84 tackles, 15 pass breakups, and five interceptions.

Now, as he joins a crowded cornerback room in Denver, Goodrich will have to fight for his spot. But if his track record at Clemson and his perseverance through the UFL are any indication, he won’t back down from the challenge.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

More must-reads: