Thomas Hammock, a former Northern Illinois University (NIU) football player and assistant coach, has landed his “dream job” as the head coach of the NIU football program. Hammock’s journey back to his alma mater marks a significant milestone, not just for him but for the NIU community. From his days as a standout player to his impressive coaching career in the NFL, Hammock’s return as the 23rd head coach of the Huskies is a full-circle moment filled with passion, pride, and promise.
A Dream Realized: Thomas Hammock’s Passion for NIU Football
Hammock’s connection to Northern Illinois University runs deep. As a standout running back for the Huskies from 1999 to 2002, he amassed 2,432 rushing yards, ranking 13th in school history. Even then, Hammock knew he wanted to lead the program one day.
During his time as a graduate assistant at Wisconsin, he had a clear vision of becoming the head coach at NIU. Fast forward to January 2019, and that dream became a reality when Hammock was introduced as the new head coach at NIU.
“This has always been my dream,” Hammock said during his introductory press conference. “When I was a [graduate assistant] at Wisconsin, I knew I wanted to be the head coach at Northern Illinois University. It’s a great day to be a Huskie, and I expect all Huskies to unite.”
First African-American Head Coach in NIU Football History
Hammock’s appointment as head coach was historic, as he became the first African-American to hold the position in the program’s history. However, Hammock downplayed the significance of this achievement, emphasizing that his focus was on continuing to move the program forward.
“I feel that pressure of guys looking at me to say, ‘This is our program. How can we make sure to continue to move it forward?’ That’s the pressure I feel, not race or anything like that,” Hammock said. “All I asked [NIU athletic director Sean Frazier] was, ‘Just give me the opportunity in this process to interview. And if I win, I win. And if I don’t, I’m good.’”
Hammock’s desire to lead NIU wasn’t about breaking barriers, but about fulfilling his passion for the program that shaped him both as a player and a person.
Coaching Journey: From the NFL to NIU
Before returning to NIU, Hammock spent five seasons as the running backs coach for the Baltimore Ravens (2014-2018). During his time with the Ravens, Hammock helped the team’s rushing attack rank among the top 11 in the NFL three times.
His work with players like Justin Forsett and Alex Collins helped revitalize the Ravens’ ground game, with Forsett earning a Pro Bowl selection in 2014.
In addition to his time in the NFL, Hammock had successful coaching stints at Wisconsin and Minnesota, where he played a pivotal role in developing elite running backs like Montee Ball and Melvin Gordon. His coaching experience, combined with his passion for NIU, made him a natural fit to lead the Huskies.
“I’ve learned so much from the coaches I’ve worked with, from Joe Novak to Barry Alvarez to John Harbaugh,” Hammock said. “I’ve had the opportunity to work for some great mentors, and they’ve embraced me and nurtured me.
Now, I can’t wait to get started with the players at NIU and put a product on the field that the alumni and fans will be proud of.”
A New Era for NIU Football
As the first NIU alum to lead the program since Howard Fletcher, Hammock brings a unique perspective and understanding of what it means to be a Huskie. His connection to the university, coupled with his extensive coaching experience, positions him to take the team to new heights.
NIU athletic director Sean Frazier was confident in his decision to hire Hammock, emphasizing the importance of finding someone who understood the program’s history and traditions.
“We constantly talk about how we need to move the program to the next level,” Frazier said. “One of the things we were looking for was someone to take our current championship success to the next level. And with Thomas, I know we’ve found that person.”
Hammock’s vision for the program includes strengthening the offense to match the team’s defensive prowess. While he didn’t commit to a specific offensive philosophy, Hammock emphasized the importance of evaluating the team before implementing any changes.
“We want to be good on offense. We want the offense to match the defense,” Hammock said. “If we can do that, we have a chance to take the program where people want it to go.”
Family and Community Support
Hammock’s journey to becoming head coach wouldn’t be complete without the support of his family. His wife, Cheynnitha, and their two children, Thomas Douglas and Tierra, have been by his side throughout his coaching career. As Hammock returns to DeKalb, he brings his family with him, excited to start this new chapter together.
For Hammock, leading the NIU football program is more than just a job—it’s a homecoming. His deep connection to the university, the community, and the players makes him the ideal person to lead the program into its next chapter.
“I can’t describe the feeling,” Hammock said. “It’s an unbelievable feeling to have the opportunity to come home to a place that I love, to the school that has meant so much to me.”
Conclusion
Thomas Hammock’s return to Northern Illinois University as head coach is a story of passion, perseverance, and a deep love for the game and the institution that helped shape him.
As he embarks on this new journey, Hammock is focused on continuing the tradition of excellence at NIU while taking the football program to new heights. With his experience, dedication, and vision, the future looks bright for the Huskies under Hammock’s leadership.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Who is Thomas Hammock?
Thomas Hammock is the 23rd head football coach at Northern Illinois University. He is an NIU alum and former Huskie running back. Before becoming head coach, Hammock served as an assistant coach for the Baltimore Ravens and held coaching positions at Wisconsin and Minnesota.
2. Why is Thomas Hammock’s appointment significant?
Hammock is the first African-American head coach in NIU football history. His appointment also marks the first time since Howard Fletcher (1956-1968) that an NIU alum has led the football program.
3. What is Thomas Hammock’s coaching background?
Hammock has over 16 years of coaching experience, including stints in the NFL with the Baltimore Ravens and in college football at Wisconsin, Minnesota, and NIU. He has coached some of the nation’s top running backs and helped lead teams to success on both the collegiate and professional levels.
4. What is Hammock’s vision for NIU football?
Hammock plans to evaluate the team before implementing any specific changes but aims to strengthen the offense to match the defense’s reputation. He is focused on continuing the program’s tradition of excellence while taking it to the next level.
5. How does Hammock’s connection to NIU impact his role as head coach?
As an NIU alum and former player, Hammock has a deep understanding of the university’s culture, traditions, and the passion that surrounds Huskie football. His connection to the school and community positions him well to lead the program forward.
