**Tigers’ Offensive Coordinator and Running Backs Coach Derrick Nix Turns Down Jaw-Dropping $3 Million Offer from Texas Longhorns**
In a stunning move that has sent shockwaves through the college football world, Derrick Nix, the highly respected offensive coordinator and running backs coach for the Auburn Tigers, has reportedly turned down a massive $3 million offer from the Texas Longhorns. The offer, which would have placed Nix among the highest-paid assistant coaches in the sport, underscores his value as both a recruiter and developer of talent. Yet, his decision to remain at Auburn speaks volumes about his loyalty to the program, his belief in the Tigers’ future, and the culture head coach Hugh Freeze is building on the Plains.
Nix, a former Ole Miss standout and longtime assistant under Freeze, has been instrumental in Auburn’s offensive resurgence since reuniting with his former boss. Known for his ability to identify and develop elite running backs, Nix has played a key role in shaping some of the SEC’s most dynamic offenses over the years. His reputation as a relentless recruiter, particularly in the talent-rich Deep South, has made him one of the most sought-after assistants in the nation. Texas, looking to bolster its offensive staff under head coach Steve Sarkisian, saw Nix as the perfect candidate to elevate their running game and recruiting efforts in the SEC-bound Longhorns’ new era.
The $3 million offer from Texas was not just a testament to Nix’s coaching acumen but also a reflection of the escalating financial arms race in college football. Assistant coaches, particularly those with proven track records in powerhouse conferences like the SEC, are commanding salaries once reserved only for head coaches. For Nix to turn down such a life-changing sum suggests that factors beyond money—relationships, program stability, and personal fulfillment—played a significant role in his choice.
Sources close to the situation indicate that Nix’s bond with Freeze was a major factor in his decision. The two have a long history together, dating back to their time at Ole Miss, where Nix served as running backs coach and Freeze as head coach. Their reunion at Auburn last season was seen as a major coup for the Tigers, and Nix’s decision to stay suggests he believes in the long-term vision Freeze is implementing. Additionally, Nix has deep roots in the SEC, having spent nearly his entire coaching career in the conference. The opportunity to continue competing at the highest level of college football, without uprooting his family or adapting to a new system, likely weighed heavily in his choice.
Another critical factor may have been the current trajectory of the Auburn program. Despite a challenging transition period in recent years, the Tigers have shown flashes of promise under Freeze, particularly on the recruiting trail. Nix has been central to those efforts, helping secure key commitments from top-tier running backs and offensive playmakers. With the program seemingly on the upswing, Nix may see an opportunity to build something special at Auburn rather than starting anew at Texas, even with the allure of a bigger paycheck.
For Texas, missing out on Nix is a significant setback. The Longhorns, preparing for their move to the SEC in 2024, are looking to assemble a staff capable of competing with the likes of Alabama, Georgia, and LSU. Nix’s SEC experience and recruiting prowess would have been invaluable as Texas transitions into the nation’s toughest conference. Now, Sarkisian and his staff must regroup and identify another top candidate to fill the role, knowing that few assistants bring the same combination of skills and conference familiarity as Nix.
For Auburn, retaining Nix is a massive win. In an era where elite assistants are constantly poached by wealthier programs, keeping a coach of Nix’s caliber demonstrates the program’s commitment to building sustained success. It also sends a strong message to recruits and players that the Tigers’ coaching staff is fully invested in the future of Auburn football. With Nix continuing to lead the running backs and coordinate the offense, the Tigers can maintain continuity in their system, a crucial element for player development and on-field performance.
The financial aspect of Nix’s decision cannot be ignored. While $3 million is an extraordinary sum for an assistant coach, Auburn may have countered with a raise or additional incentives to keep him in the fold. Though it’s unlikely the Tigers could match Texas’ offer dollar-for-dollar, they may have sweetened the deal with bonuses, long-term security, or promises of increased influence within the program. Additionally, the cost of living in Auburn versus Austin, along with potential endorsement opportunities in a football-crazed state like Alabama, may have played a role in Nix’s calculus.
Beyond the financial and professional considerations, Nix’s decision highlights the intangible value of loyalty in college football. In an industry where coaches frequently jump at the highest bidder, Nix’s choice to stay at Auburn—despite a monumental offer—resonates with players, fans, and fellow coaches. It reinforces the idea that some bonds and commitments transcend money, and that building a lasting legacy can sometimes outweigh immediate financial gain.
For Auburn fans, Nix’s decision is a reason for optimism. With him remaining on staff, the Tigers’ offense is in capable hands, and the program’s recruiting momentum should continue to build. For Texas, the search for an elite running backs coach and offensive mind continues, but the Longhorns’ willingness to offer such a lucrative deal proves they are serious about competing at the highest level.
As the college football landscape continues to evolve, with NIL deals and conference realignment reshaping the sport, stories like Derrick Nix’s will become increasingly rare. The fact that a coach turned down $3 million to stay with his current program is a testament to the power of relationships, belief in a system, and the desire to see a long-term vision through. For Auburn, it’s a victory off the field that could pay dividends on it for years to come.
