North Carolina A&T head coach Shawn Gibbs unveiled his coaching staff on Monday, featuring familiar faces and strong ties to A&T Aggies history

GREENSBORO – North Carolina A&T head coach Shawn Gibbs unveiled his coaching staff on Monday, featuring familiar faces and strong ties to A&T Aggies history.

A&T graduate Denzel Jones takes the helm as defensive coordinator, marking his return to Aggieland. Former Howard University quarterback Greg McGhee joins as the offensive coordinator.

Several key members of past A&T coaching staffs are also returning, including offensive line coach Ron Mattes, wide receivers coach Nate Poole, running backs coach Keith Henry, outside linebackers coach Terry Lantz, tight ends coach Stephen Barnette, and assistant linebackers coach Alex Purviance.

Another notable addition is defensive backs coach Tony McRae, a celebrated A&T alumnus and former standout on defense and special teams. Rounding out the staff is defensive line coach OC Williams II, with Theric Holt appointed as the director of football operations.

“I’m thrilled about the staff we’ve put together,” said Gibbs. “Many of them have deep connections to A&T and have excelled in both HBCU football and professional arenas.”

Defensive Coordinator: Denzel Jones

Jones played for A&T from 2012 to 2015, earning Defensive MVP at the inaugural Celebration Bowl. After three successful seasons as Gibbs’ defensive coordinator at Fort Valley State University (FVSU), where the Wildcats led Division II in total defense and rush defense in 2024, he returns to coach A&T’s linebackers alongside his coordinator duties.

Offensive Coordinator: Greg McGhee

McGhee, a former MEAC Offensive Player of the Year (2013, 2014), is a Howard University Hall of Famer. He previously coached quarterbacks and served as passing game coordinator at Howard, following stints at West Liberty University. McGhee remains the MEAC’s all-time leader in total yards and completions. Alongside his coordinator role, he will coach A&T’s quarterbacks.

Returning Coaches

• Ron Mattes: Returning for his 10th season, Mattes has developed standout offensive linemen, including Atlanta Falcons tackle Brandon Parker.
• Nate Poole: Since 2020, Poole has mentored top receivers like Zachary Leslie and Ger-Cari Caldwell.
• Keith Henry: Transitioning from safeties to running backs coach after two seasons.
• Terry Lantz: Former defensive coordinator at Averett, Lantz previously served A&T under Rod Broadway and Sam Washington.

New and Familiar Faces

• Tony McRae: A former NFL player and dynamic return specialist during his time at A&T, McRae returns after coaching at NC Central, where he contributed to the 2022 Celebration Bowl victory.
• OC Williams II and Theric Holt: Both coached under Gibbs at FVSU, contributing to the Wildcats’ dominance in 2024. Williams will coach the defensive line, while Holt transitions to director of football operations.

The Aggies kick off their season on Saturday, August 30, against Tennessee State. With a blend of seasoned coaches and fresh perspectives, Gibbs’ staff aims to elevate A&T football to new heights.