Northern Illinois University head coach Thomas Hammock is set to leave his position after seven years, accepting a role as the running backs coach for the Super Bowl-winning Seattle Seahawks, according to sources within the program. At 44 years old, Hammock compiled a record of 35-47 while leading his alma mater, which included a remarkable upset victory against Notre Dame early in the 2024 season. During his tenure, the Huskies qualified for bowl games three times but struggled last season, finishing with a disappointing 3-9 record.
In light of Hammock’s departure, second-year defensive coordinator Rob Harley will be elevated to interim head coach for the 2026 season. Following Harley’s official appointment, NIU players will be granted a 15-day window to enter the transfer portal, indicating a significant shift within the program.
NIU is also undergoing a transition as it prepares to exit the Mid-American Conference this year, aligning itself as a football-only member of the Mountain West Conference.
Hammock’s new opportunity with the Seahawks marks a reunion with head coach Mike Macdonald, with whom he has a history of collaboration spent together on the coaching staff of the Baltimore Ravens from 2014 to 2018. This trend of MAC head coaches stepping up to higher levels continues, as several coaches have made similar moves in recent years. For instance, last February, former Bowling Green coach Scot Loeffler became the quarterbacks coach for the Philadelphia Eagles, and Maurice Linguist exited Buffalo to join Alabama as a defensive assistant in 2024. In another notable shift, Sean Lewis moved from Kent State to serve as Deion Sanders’ offensive coordinator at Colorado before taking the helm at San Diego State as head coach in 2024.
Hammock’s departure signifies both a personal achievement in his career and a pivotal moment for Northern Illinois football as it transitions to new leadership and a different competitive landscape. This change presents an opportunity for growth and renewed focus within the program as they navigate their upcoming challenges.