Story perspectives

NIU Coach Thomas Hammock Joins Seattle Seahawks Staff

2/18/2026

Summary

Story summary

Thomas Hammock, Northern Illinois University head football coach, will leave NIU to become the Seattle Seahawks' running backs coach and senior offensive assistant.
Hammock compiled a 35-47 record over seven seasons at NIU.
He previously coached running backs for the Baltimore Ravens from 2014 to 2018, where he worked alongside Seattle Seahawks head coach Mike Macdonald.
Hammock led NIU to a 2024 victory over Notre Dame and to the 2021 Mid-American Conference title.
The departure comes as Northern Illinois University prepares for its first season in the Mountain West Conference.

History

Historical Context

Northern Illinois University (NIU) hired Thomas Hammock as head football coach in 2019, marking a return to his alma mater. Under Hammock, NIU won the Mid-American Conference title in 2021, showcasing a resurgence after a winless 2020 season. As NIU prepares to join the Mountain West Conference in 2026, Hammock's coaching experience, including his time with the Baltimore Ravens, highlights the evolving landscape of college football.

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Story summary

Thomas Hammock, Northern Illinois University head football coach, will leave NIU to become the Seattle Seahawks' running backs coach and senior offensive assistant.
Hammock compiled a 35-47 record over seven seasons at NIU.
He previously coached running backs for the Baltimore Ravens from 2014 to 2018, where he worked alongside Seattle Seahawks head coach Mike Macdonald.
Hammock led NIU to a 2024 victory over Notre Dame and to the 2021 Mid-American Conference title.
The departure comes as Northern Illinois University prepares for its first season in the Mountain West Conference.

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