Savannah State University has turned to a seasoned defensive mind to lead its football program.
The school announced on Monday that Thomas Howard has been named the Tigers’ new head football coach.
Howard spent last season as the defensive coordinator at Fayetteville State University, helping guide one of the CIAA’s top defensive units. He also brings extensive experience from other Historically Black College and University (HBCU) programs, having previously served as defensive coordinator at Alabama A&M and South Carolina State.
Thomas replaces Aaron Kelton, who stepped down from the role after four seasons.
🚨🚨 BREAKING NEWS 🚨🚨 TIGER NATION: Welcome to The Marsh our new head football coach, Thomas Howard! He comes to SSU from Fayetteville State where he was the defensive coordinator. Click on the link below to learn more about the new head Tiger! #HailSSU! https://t.co/DeFR8NeeSl
— Savannah State University Athletics (@SavStateTigers) December 22, 2025
Before joining Fayetteville State, Howard was part of four HBCU National Championship teams at North Carolina A&T, where he was instrumental in developing dominant defensive squads that powered the Aggies to sustained success.
University officials said an introductory press conference will be held in January to formally welcome Howard and his family to Savannah, known as “The Hostess City.”
Howard takes over a program looking to build on its foundation in recent seasons and continue its pursuit of postseason contention in the SIAC.