Derrick Nix Wikipedia: As the news circulates, the player-turned-coach Derrick Nix sets to leave behind his 16 years of legacy with Mississippi to join Auburn.
Here’s a look into everything you wish to know about the running backs coach, Derrick Nix.
An American football coach, Derrick Nix, heads to join in as an offensive coordinator and running backs coach at Auburn University.
Auburn reportedly announced the hiring of Derrick along with the quarterback coach, Kent Austin, on January 17, 2024.
The coach initiated his coaching journey at the University of Southern Mississippi, his alma mater, from 2003 to 2006.
Initially starting as a defensive graduate assistant, he transitioned to mentoring tight ends before serving as a running back coach.
Further, Derrick boasts an impressive 16 years of history as the football coach of the University of Mississippi.
During his tenure, he served in multiple roles, including as a running back coach (2008-19), wide receivers coach (2020-23), and assistant head coach (2022-23).
Under his leadership, the Ole Miss Rebels flourished remarkably, earning notable honors and victories.
Further, Derrick’s impact extended beyond the team, elevating players such as Elijah Moore, Jaylen Walton, and Brandon Bolden to exceptional levels.
Derrick Nix Wikipedia And Age
The veteran coach Derrick Nix, now 44 years old, was born on February 22, 1980, to his father, Rev Preston Nix, and his mother.
Originally from Attalla, Alabama, he initially began his football journey at Etowah High School, earning an All-County honors.
Following that, he attended the University of Southern Mississippi and played as a running back from 1998 through 2002.
Nicknamed “The Baby Bull,” he was particularly well-known for his game-changing abilities and athletic personality.
Besides, the former player led the Golden Eagles in rushing for two consecutive seasons, throwing over 1000 yards.
Further, Derrick finished his collegiate career with 768 carries for 3,584 yards and 20 touchdowns. Apart from all this, he graduated with a Bachelor’s degree in sports and fitness administration.
Additionally, although Derrick wished to play professionally, he underwent a kidney transplant and opted for a coaching career.
Auburn University To Hire The Longtime Mississippi Coach
The longtime coach of Ole Miss Rebels, who nearly served for two decades, sets to join Hugh Freez’s staff team.
On January 17, 2024, Auburn declared to hire Derrick Nix as an offensive coordinator and running backs coach.
Mississippi announced Nix’s departure with a message on X, formerly Twitter, expressing gratitude towards his 16 years of service.
Lane Kiffin, head of Mississippi, stated, “Acknowledging the opportunity to become a first-time play-caller with full-time playcalling duties at Auburn University.”
Further, he mentioned,
“We will begin the search for a new wide receivers coach immediately to find the best-fit coach.”
Well, Kiffin’s statement received a mix of positive and critical responses from college football fans, calling it pathetic and unprofessional.