The Syracuse offensive coordinator could potentially return to the big league. After Bobby Slowik went from head coaching candidate to offensive coordinator in free agency, the Houston Texans are searching for his replacement. No strangers to the whirlwind of NFL coaching searches, this offseason is no different. With a young roster eager for leadership and a quarterback who showed flashes of brilliance in his rookie season, they are interviewing promising internal candidates like quarterbacks coach Jerrod Johnson while also considering external options.

It’s no surprise that the Texans are exploring every avenue. One name has surfaced with a mix of intrigue and excitement, a coach whose career bridges the gap between the college game’s creative chaos and the NFL’s calculated precision. Jeff Nixon, currently the offensive mastermind at Syracuse, has reportedly been interviewed for the role, per ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler on X.

While Nixon isn’t a household name, his résumé is quietly impressive, and his impact on the Cuse in 2023 was nothing short of transformative. Specifically, crafting a beast with the most prolific passing season in ACC history with first-year head coach Fran Brown.

Under his guidance, Syracuse quarterback Kyle McCord delivered a season for the ages, breaking the ACC single-season passing record with 4,779 yards and 34 TDs. To put it into perspective, McCord eclipsed a mark previously held by Clemson’s Deshaun Watson, a name that still echoes through Texans 2017-21 lore. Nixon’s offense didn’t just produce gaudy numbers; it showcased an ability to adapt and evolve, a trait Houston desperately needs in its next play-caller. Nixon’s ability to turn a talented but unpolished 6′ 3″, 220-pounder into the nation’s top passer speaks volumes about his coaching acumen and ability to connect with his players.

What makes Nixon particularly appealing to the Texans is his NFL pedigree. Before taking over the Orange’s offense, he spent three seasons with the Carolina Panthers, even stepping into the interim offensive coordinator role in 2021. During his tenure, he worked alongside former Baylor head coach Matt Rhule, a partnership that began during their time at Baylor from 2017-2019.

At Baylor, Nixon’s offenses were balanced, explosive, and efficient, traits he carried into the pros. His recent stint as the running backs coach with the New York Giants in 2023 adds another layer of versatility to his coaching profile. Few coaches can claim a résumé that seamlessly blends college innovation with NFL experience, and that dual expertise is precisely what Houston needs to unlock its offensive potential.

The Texans’ (10-7) decision to part ways with Slowik after just one season underscores their urgency to find the right fit. Coming fresh off a 23-14 loss in the playoffs to Mahomes’ Chiefs, they had a phenomenal season with young QB1 C.J. Stroud. The next offensive coordinator must be someone who can nurture talent while implementing a system that maximizes efficiency and creativity.

While there are no guarantees in the NFL, his ability to thrive in both the college and professional ranks suggests he’s well-equipped for the challenge.

Jeff Nixon’s QB is making a case for himself at the Shrine Bowl

Nixon’s coaching clearly paid off! Kyle McCord, the Ohio State transfer, is quietly turning heads at the East-West Shrine Bowl practices, proving his worth after a monster 2024 season with 4,779 passing yards and 34 touchdowns. Known for his rocket arm and knack for reading defenses, McCord is proving he belongs in the draft conversation. While the headlines have been dominated by big-name quarterbacks like Cam Ward from Miami and Shedeur Sanders from Colorado, McCord is working hard to carve out his own space in the spotlight—and it’s paying off.

With several NFL teams desperate for a quarterback this offseason and free agency looking like slim pickings, McCord’s timing couldn’t be better. His performance in practices has boosted his stock, and the buzz surrounding him is growing louder.

The real test, though, comes on January 30 during the Shrine Bowl game. Nixon’s track record of developing quarterbacks and crafting high-powered offenses makes him an intriguing candidate.