UPDATE: Northern Illinois University head coach Thomas Hammock is making headlines after delivering a passionate message about the challenges posed by the transfer portal during a media day on August 13, 2025. As college football landscapes shift, Hammock’s comments have gone viral, garnering millions of views and igniting discussions about the future of college athletics.
Hammock’s remarks come in the wake of significant player movement, with Northern Illinois losing nine starters to the transfer portal, including former starting quarterback Ethan Hampton, who transferred to Illinois. “We lost all these guys, let’s see who plays,” Hammock stated, emphasizing the potential consequences of players prioritizing immediate gains over long-term development.
As the Huskies prepare for their final season in the Mid-American Conference, beginning with a game against Holy Cross at Huskie Stadium, Hammock is calling for a reevaluation of priorities in college sports. He expressed concern that many athletes focus solely on money and visibility, overlooking the invaluable lessons and experiences that come with college education.
“I enjoyed my college experience. I didn’t get one dime, but the lessons I learned were more valuable than any money you could ever pay me,” Hammock remarked, urging players to consider their long-term futures.
Hammock, who boasts a coaching record of 32-38 with three bowl appearances, has a unique perspective on the evolving dynamics of college football. He likened the financial disparity between programs to living situations, stating, “They have houses. We live in an apartment,” highlighting the challenges faced by smaller programs in the era of revenue-sharing.
With the recent changes approved in the House vs. NCAA settlement, NIU has opted into revenue sharing but may not reach the spending cap of $20.5 million. Hammock is determined to adapt, emphasizing the need for accelerated player development in response to the unpredictable nature of the portal era.
“We need to be ready to develop players six months quicker than before,” he stated, outlining a strategy that involves integrating young talent into practice more rapidly to prepare them for unexpected departures.
Hammock’s approach has already shown promise, with quarterback Josh Holst stepping up last season and leading the Huskies to a 28-20 double-overtime victory in the Famous Idaho Potato Bowl. Holst expressed confidence that his prior experience will ease the transition into a starting role this season.
Despite the significant roster turnover, Hammock is committed to fostering a supportive environment for his players. He shared that all players who transferred communicated with him first, reflecting a strong foundation of trust within the program. “I have a tremendous passion for helping student-athletes, and that’s why I came back to college,” Hammock emphasized.
As the football landscape continues to evolve, Hammock’s call for a focus on long-term development resonates strongly. He advocates for a balanced approach that includes both financial incentives and essential life lessons to prepare his players for success beyond the field.
With the kickoff of the new season just days away, Hammock’s leadership and vision will be put to the test as Northern Illinois seeks to navigate the complexities of the transfer portal while maintaining its competitive edge. As he prepares his team for this critical moment, the stakes have never been higher for the Huskies.
Fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see how Hammock’s strategies play out in a rapidly changing college football environment. Stay tuned for updates as the season unfolds and Northern Illinois embarks on a new chapter in its football journey.
