(BCSNN) — Northern Illinois head coach Thomas Hammock has stepped down after seven seasons to accept a coaching position in the National Football League, the university announced. Hammock, a former NIU running back and Hall of Famer, leaves after guiding the Huskies to a Mid-American Conference championship, multiple bowl victories, and one of the biggest wins in program history.

Hammock returned to NIU in 2019 and quickly restored the program’s national profile. His tenure included the 2021 MAC Championship, consecutive bowl wins, and three “Boneyard Wins” over Power Four opponents. The signature moment came in 2024, when NIU stunned fifth‑ranked Notre Dame — one of the most significant victories ever for both the school and the conference.

Frazier praised Hammock’s impact on and off the field. “His passion for NIU and commitment to developing young men will be his legacy,” Frazier said. “He has left a lasting impact on his alma mater.”

Hammock expressed gratitude for the opportunity to lead the program. “Representing Northern Illinois University as a player, alumnus, assistant coach, and head coach has been the honor of my life,” he said. He also voiced confidence in the team’s future as NIU prepares to enter the Mountain West Conference.

Under Hammock, NIU also excelled academically, posting record GPAs and earning widespread recognition for student‑athlete success. His leadership helped stabilize the program through conference realignment and positioned the Huskies for their next chapter.

Frazier, who assumed sport administration duties for football in December, promoted defensive coordinator Rob Harley to interim head coach as the university begins its search for Hammock’s permanent successor.