Joel Thomas

Joel Thomas (born November 7, 1974) is an American football coach who is the running backs coach for the New Orleans Saints of the National Football League (NFL).

Early life and playing career Thomas graduated from Port Angeles High School in 1993. he ultimately returned once again to play in his senior season. He graduated in 1998,

In 2013, Thomas became the running backs coach for Arkansas, a position he held through the 2014 season. Upon his hiring, Razorbacks head coach Bret Bielema stated that, “He excelled at the position as a player and has demonstrated a remarkable ability to connect with his student-athletes and pass his knowledge on to them. He also brings a strong background of recruiting in Texas and Dallas specifically, which is a valuable area for us to have a presence.” During his final year with the Razorbacks, Arkansas defeated the Texas Longhorns in the 2014 Texas Bowl. having previously done a training camp internship with the Saints in 2012. He had also held a training camp internship with the Pittsburgh Steelers in 2008. Between 2015 and 2018, the Saints led the NFL in total team rushing touchdowns (82).

New York Giants On January 19, 2024, Thomas was hired by the New York Giants to serve as the team's running backs coach.

New Orleans Saints (second stint) On February 18, 2025, the New Orleans Saints hired Thomas to serve as the team's running backs coach, a role he previously held from 2015 to 2023.

Recognition Thomas is a member of the Port Angeles High School Athletic Hall of Fame. He was also inducted into the University of Idaho Athletic Hall of Fame in 2008.

Personal life Thomas is married to his wife Ebbie Thomas, with whom he has two children.