Giants Announce New RB Coach and Executive Director of Player Performance

EAST RUTHERFORD, N.J. - The New York Giants have made significant additions to their coaching staff, bringing in Joel Thomas as the new running backs coach and Aaron Wellman as the executive director of player performance.

Both Thomas and Wellman, both 49 years old, join offensive line coach Carmen Bricillo as new members of the Giants' coaching staff. Thomas brings with him 24 years of coaching experience, previously serving as the New Orleans Saints' running backs coach for nine seasons. During his tenure with the Saints, they ranked second in the NFL with 161 rushing touchdowns. Thomas' expertise is also reflected in his backs producing 27 individual 100-yard performances.

Under Thomas' guidance, Alvin Kamara achieved great success, earning five Pro Bowl selections and becoming the only NFL player with over 1,160 yards from scrimmage each season for the past seven years. Kamara's accomplishments include three seasons with over 1,500 yards and leading the Saints in rushing for six consecutive seasons. Additionally, Kamara's impressive statistics of 10,048 scrimmage yards and 78 touchdowns since entering the league in 2017 puts him in a group of elite players including Derrick Henry, Tyreek Hill, and Christian McCaffrey.

Prior to joining the Saints, Thomas worked as the running backs coach at the University of Arkansas and the University of Washington. He also held coaching positions at Purdue, Louisville, and Idaho. Thomas himself had an outstanding college career as a running back at the University of Idaho, earning multiple honors and setting several records.

Replacing Jeff Nixon, Thomas is set to make a significant impact on the Giants' running backs.

In addition to Thomas, the Giants have also hired Aaron Wellman as the executive director of player performance. Wellman returns to the Giants after spending the past four seasons as Indiana University's senior assistant athletic director for football performance. During his earlier tenure with the Giants, Wellman served as the team's strength and conditioning coach under head coaches Ben McAdoo and Pat Shurmur.

Wellman's responsibilities included developing specialized performance programs to enhance speed, strength, and power while minimizing the risk of injury. With previous experience in leading strength and conditioning programs at various universities, including Ball State, San Diego State, and the University of Michigan, Wellman brings a wealth of knowledge to his new role.

Wellman's appointment comes after the departure of Craig Fitzgerald, who recently accepted a position at the University of Florida. Wellman's expertise and experience will be vital in ensuring the Giants' players are prepared physically and perform at their best.

With these new coaching additions, the Giants are positioning themselves for success in the upcoming season. The expertise of Joel Thomas and Aaron Wellman will undoubtedly have a positive impact on the team.