Joyce Goodwin recalls the noise of her sons, Harold and Jonathan, playing basketball in their home in Hopkins, S.C. Despite a five-year age gap, Harold played on his knees to even the game with Little Jonathan. The brothers grew up to play offensive line at the University of Michigan.
Harold Goodwin now serves as the Carolina Panthers’ run game coordinator. Jonathan joins him as a coaching intern under the Bill Walsh Diversity Coaching Fellowship. Joyce expresses her joy at having both sons nearby again.
Jonathan brings experience from 13 years as a Pro Bowl center with teams like the Jets, Saints, and 49ers. His addition fills a gap in the Panthers’ coaching staff after Keli’i Kekuewa’s promotion to the Jaguars.
Harold began his NFL coaching career in 2004 and has served as an assistant head coach for two teams. He values Jonathan’s presence and experience as beneficial for the team.
Jonathan appreciates working alongside his brother and believes it simplifies family support. He credits Jim Harbaugh and Dave Canales among others for this opportunity.
Joyce reflects on past sacrifices, including long drives to see her sons’ games. Now retired, she looks forward to seeing them together at games again.
“She’s super proud,” Harold said of their mother’s feelings about their careers. “She tells us how proud she is all the time.”
For Joyce Goodwin, seeing her sons united professionally is deeply fulfilling: “It’s just a blessing,” she said. “I can’t wait to get into the stadium and see them together.”
