Kalen DeBoer Recruits Former Auburn Assistant Derrick Nix to Alabama Staff
Alabama has officially announced the addition of Derrick Nix to its coaching staff. Nix, the former offensive coordinator at Auburn, will take on the role of receivers coach for the Crimson Tide. This change comes after JaMarcus Shephard departed to become the head coach at Oregon State.
Derrick Nix Joins Alabama Coaching Staff
Head coach Kalen DeBoer emphasized Nix’s extensive experience in the SEC, both in coaching and recruiting. DeBoer stated, “Derrick Nix adds extensive SEC experience to our group. He’s very familiar with our current coaches and understands the state, its fans, and the passion surrounding Alabama football.”
Experience and Achievements
- Nix is a native of Attalla, Alabama, and has over two decades of coaching experience.
- He has worked with receivers, running backs, and tight ends at various institutions, including Southern Miss, Ole Miss, and Auburn.
- During his tenure at Auburn from 2024 to 2025, he coached standout Jarquez Hunter, who made the All-SEC first team.
- Nix served as Auburn’s offensive play caller for part of the 2025 season, achieving notable success.
Coaching Impact at Auburn
Under Nix’s guidance, Auburn’s offense thrived in November 2025. In three games as play-caller, he helped produce:
| Opponent | Points Scored |
|---|---|
| Vanderbilt | 38 |
| Mercer | 62 |
| Alabama | 20 |
Before his time at Auburn, Nix spent 16 years at Ole Miss, where he coached the Rebels’ receivers between 2020 and 2023. His coaching prowess led him to be inducted into the Mississippi Sports Hall of Fame and the Southern Miss Athletics Hall of Fame.
Looking Ahead
Nix expressed his enthusiasm about joining Alabama, stating, “I am truly honored and excited to be part of the gold standard in college football – The University of Alabama.” He looks forward to contributing to the team’s rich tradition and championship legacy.
As the Crimson Tide prepare for the upcoming season, Derrick Nix’s addition brings a wealth of experience and passion that will benefit the program greatly.
