He played college football for the Iowa Hawkeyes and was selected by the Carolina Panthers in the third round of the 2008 NFL draft.

Despite spending most of his time at cornerback, he was described as a physical hitter that likes to provide run support, and may be better suited at safety.

[4] He started all 16 games at the free safety position and finished his rookie campaign with 61 tackles, 1 sack, 1 forced fumble and 1 interception.

[10] On October 6, Godfrey re-signed with the Falcons to offer depth while starting safety Ricardo Allen recovers from injuries.

[11] On October 20, 2015, it was reported that the Falcons had released Godfrey in order to make room for newly acquired linebacker, Philip Wheeler.