Essendon are trying to fill the coaching breach left by James Hird's 12-month ban, which ends in late August next year.
Goodwin is a potential candidate, but was also interviewed by the Lions last week about their vacant head coaching job.
He said if it came to a choice, it would be a tough decision but suggested a long-term senior coaching post would trump the loyalty he feels towards the Bombers.
"It would be a great opportunity to stay (at Essendon) and be a part of it next year," Goodwin told the Seven Network's AFL Game Day.
"But if you get the opportunity to coach your own team for a long period of time, it's probably an opportunity you can't knock back.
"That's sort of the approach I'm taking."
Goodwin was unsure about his prospects of landing the Lions job.
"When you're in there (being interviewed) you think it's going well but towards the end you're really not sure, you walk out, there's a lot of poker faces and (people saying) 'We'll be in touch shortly'" he said.
Meanwhile, he said the Bombers wanted to keep forward Stewart Crameri, who is weighing up a big offer from the Western Bulldogs, but would understand if he decides to leave.
"We understand there are some big offers out there for Stew and we'll respect that decision," Goodwin said.
