The Ravens have dipped into the college ranks to hire a new running backs coach.
Former Wisconsin Assistant Head Coach and Running Backs Coach Thomas Hammock has been hired to fill the spot that opened when the team parted ways with Wilbert Montgomery.
"The opportunity to coach at the highest level – and that's what the NFL is – excites me," Hammock said. "To come to an organization that is committed to winning and has a coaching staff that is so respected is a tremendous opportunity, and I'm looking forward to getting started."
Hammock has coached at Wisconsin since 2011, and was previously the offensive coordinator at Minnesota.
During his time at Wisconsin, Hammock led one of the top rushing attacks in the nation. Running back Montee Ball led the nation in rushing and was a Heisman Trophy finalist in 2011. The next season, Ball became the NCAA's all-time leader in touchdowns and the Doak Walker Award winner given to the nation's top running back.
Ball ended up getting drafted by the AFC champion Denver Broncos in the second round of last year's draft.
"Take a look at Thomas' college resume. It's impressive, and it's clear he can teach, coach and help players become better," Head Coach John Harbaugh said. "He's an impressive person, and we're looking forward to seeing him coach our players."
In Hammock's three years as Wisconsin's running backs coach, the Badgers ranked third in the NCAA in rushing yards per attempt (5.7 yards), fourth in rushing touchdowns (121) and seventh overall in rushing (251.1 yards per game).
He now joins Harbaugh's staff and will begin implementing a scheme change under new Offensive Coordinator Gary Kubaiak. Hammock will work with running backs Ray Rice and Bernard Pierce to get the Ravens rushing attack back on track after the worst season in franchise history.
"Working with coach Harbaugh, learning the offense and working with coach Kubiak, and then coaching these outstanding Ravens players, is special," Hammock said. "I feel very honored and fortunate to be here. My wife and I and our two children are looking forward to being part of the Baltimore community."
The hiring of Hammock leaves the wide receivers coach as the only open spot left on Harbaugh's staff.
