Clemson CB Mario Goodrich signs free agent deal

CLEMSON — Former Clemson cornerback Mario Goodrich was not selected in this week’s NFL draft, but Goodrich will still get an opportunity with an NFL team.

According to Tom Pelissero of the NFL Network, Goodrich has signed a free agent deal with the Philadelphia Eagles.

Goodrich is getting $217,000 fully guaranteed, according to Pelissero. Goodrich tweeted out “Fly Eagles fly” shortly after the draft concluded Saturday night.

He will team up with former Clemson safety K’Von Wallace, who is also with the Eagles, in Philadephia.

Goodrich is the second Tigers cornerback to get an NFL opportunity.

The Vikings drafted fellow Tigers corner Andrew Booth Jr. in the second round, No. 42 overall, on Friday.

Like Booth, Goodrich was a first-team All-ACC selection last season.

Goodrich signed with Clemson as a four-star recruit in the class of 2018 and had an up-and-down career, due mostly to injuries.

He was finally healthy for his final season and really shined.

Goodrich had 48 tackles, nine pass breakups and two interceptions as a senior while starting 12 games.

He saved the best game of his career for his last one as Goodrich was named the MVP of the Cheez-It Bowl for his performance in Clemson’s win over Iowa State.

Goodrich had a pick-six against the Cyclones and also forced a fumble that secured Clemson’s win.

“He’s a perfect example of what happens when you grow through adversity,” Tigers coach Dabo Swinney said following that game.

“You know, adversity is good for us and it makes you depend on God. Makes you dig deeper. And the biggest thing in our program, our goals are to graduate our players, to equip them and develop them as men, to have a good experience and win a championship. He’s the epitome of all those things. He’s equipped.”

Goodrich completed his career at Clemson with 84 tackles, 15 pass breakups, five interceptions, a forced fumble and a fumble recovery.

He now moves on to the NFL where he will look to continue to make plays.

“The last four years have been such an incredible journey,” Goodrich said in his statement when announcing his NFL decision. “Arriving at Clemson and winning the national championship in my first year is something I will never forget. … I can’t wait to begin the next chapter of my life.”