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After nearly a decade, Laura Rutledge is stepping down as the host of SEC Nation to take on a larger role covering the NFL for ESPN, includi...
Thomas Hammock is leaving Northern Illinois after seven seasons to join the Seattle Seahawks as their running backs coach and senior offensive assistant.
Hammock's departure comes as Northern Illinois transitions to the Mountain West Conference in 2026.
He previously served as the running backs coach for the Baltimore Ravens from 2014 to 2018.
Hammock is expected to be the highest-paid running backs coach in the NFL.
A notable win during his tenure at Northern Illinois was an upset victory over No. 5 Notre Dame in 2024.
Why this matters: Hammock's move impacts both Northern Illinois and the Seattle Seahawks. NIU loses its head coach amidst a conference transition, while the Seahawks gain an experienced coach with a track record of success in developing running backs.
Thomas Hammock's decision to leave Northern Illinois for the Seattle Seahawks signals a significant shift for both programs. After leading the Huskies for seven seasons, Hammock returns to the NFL, where he previously coached with the Baltimore Ravens. His experience and success in developing running backs make him a valuable addition to the Seahawks coaching staff.
Background:
Hammock's tenure at Northern Illinois included a Mid-American Conference (MAC) title in 2021 and bowl wins in 2023 and 2024. A signature win came in 2024 when the Huskies upset No. 5 Notre Dame, the only regular-season loss for the Fighting Irish that year. Prior to his time at Northern Illinois, Hammock spent five seasons as the running backs coach for the Baltimore Ravens (2014-2018), overlapping with current Seahawks coach Mike Macdonald.
Impact:
Northern Illinois now faces the challenge of finding a new head coach as they prepare to enter the Mountain West Conference in 2026. For the Seahawks, Hammock's arrival adds depth to their coaching staff and provides valuable expertise in the run game.
Data & Trends:
Hammock's move reflects a broader trend of college coaches transitioning to the NFL. The lure of the NFL, combined with the potential for higher compensation, continues to attract experienced college coaches.
Actionable Takeaways:
Northern Illinois fans should monitor the search for a new head coach and the impact on the team's transition to the Mountain West Conference.
Seahawks fans can anticipate an improved running game with Hammock's expertise.
Q: Why did Thomas Hammock leave Northern Illinois?
He accepted a position as the running backs coach and senior offensive assistant for the Seattle Seahawks.
Q: What were Hammock's accomplishments at Northern Illinois?
He led the Huskies to a MAC title in 2021, bowl wins in 2023 and 2024, and an upset victory over No. 5 Notre Dame in 2024.
Q: What is Hammock's previous NFL experience?
He served as the running backs coach for the Baltimore Ravens from 2014 to 2018.
Thomas Hammock has joined the Seattle Seahawks as their running backs coach.
This move ends Hammock's seven-year tenure as the head coach of Northern Illinois.
Hammock's experience in both college and NFL coaching positions makes him a valuable asset to the Seahawks.
What impact do you think Hammock's move will have on the Seattle Seahawks' running game? Share your thoughts below!
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