Derrick Nix has been appointed as the new wide receivers coach for the Alabama Crimson Tide, following a successful two-season stint at Auburn. Nix, who previously served as the offensive coordinator for the Tigers, brings nearly two decades of experience as an assistant coach within the Southeastern Conference (SEC). His hiring comes after the departure of JaMarcus Shephard, who recently took on the head coaching role at Oregon State.
In a statement regarding Nix’s hiring, Alabama head coach Kalen DeBoer emphasized the significance of Nix’s extensive background in the SEC. “Derrick Nix adds extensive SEC experience to our group – both in coaching and on the recruiting side,” DeBoer noted. He highlighted Nix’s familiarity with the coaching staff and his deep understanding of Alabama’s football culture, stating, “He’s also an Alabama native who understands the state, its fans, and the passion surrounding Alabama football.”
Nix hails from Attalla, Alabama, and has established himself as a prominent figure in southern college football. Over the course of his career, he has coached various positions, including receivers, running backs, and tight ends, with tenures at Southern Miss, Ole Miss, and Auburn. He expressed his enthusiasm for joining Alabama, saying, “I am truly honored and excited to be a part of the gold standard in college football – The University of Alabama. The rich tradition and great championship history in Tuscaloosa is second to none.”
During his time at Auburn from 2024 to 2025, Nix had a notable impact on player development. In his first year, he coached Jarquez Hunter, who earned a place on the All-SEC first team after accumulating 1,201 yards rushing. Following the firing of coach Hugh Freeze in November 2025, Nix stepped in as the offensive play caller for the final month of the season. Under his direction, the Auburn offense produced impressive scoring performances, including 38 points against Vanderbilt and 62 points against Mercer.
Before his tenure at Auburn, Nix spent 16 seasons at Ole Miss, where he coached the Rebels’ receivers from 2020 to 2023. His contributions to the sport have been recognized with inductions into the Mississippi Sports Hall of Fame and the Southern Miss Athletics Hall of Fame. Notably, he was nicknamed “Baby Bull” for his tenacity and strength, a fitting tribute to his coaching style as noted in his 2025 Hall of Fame entry.
As Nix transitions to his new role, he joins a coaching staff that is eager to build on Alabama’s storied football legacy. His extensive background and local roots position him as an asset to both the team and its recruitment efforts. With Nix now on board, Alabama fans can look forward to a new chapter in their football program as they prepare for the upcoming season.
