Nixon could be difference-maker for Buffs’ offense

BOULDER» At 5-foot-8 and 185 pounds, Colorado’s K.D. Nixon looks like the ideal slot receiver.

To label him as just a slot, however, would be to dismiss the overall talent of the sophomore.

“I don’t like people titling me just for a slot,” Nixon said.

Nixon, in fact, is eyeing a role this season in which he can help the Buffaloes in a variety of ways: from the slot, lining up outside, and even from the backfield, where he will get some rushing attempts.

“I’m excited about K.D.’s ability to catch the ball, his ability to run the ball, and when he has the ball in his hands, he’s a difference maker,” CU co-offensive coordinator Darrin Chiaverini said. “It’s exciting to have guys like that.”

Nixon has shown just a small glimpse of his potential to this point. As a true freshman last sea“Just son, he caught two passes for 17 yards, ran three times for 20 yards and averaged 23.7 yards on 11 kickoff returns.

He is planning on having a much bigger impact next season.

know there’s going to be a rude awakening for a lot of people,” he said. “Everybody will know my name.”

Opposing teams may not know where to find him on the field, though. Because of his versatility, Nixon could be one of the more exciting players on the CU offense next season.

“I’m just thankful for (Chiaverini) giving me the opportunity, because a lot of people don’t get this opportunity to play three different positions,” Nixon said. “I’m blessed to be doing that.”

Of the three positions, Nixon said he would prefer to play as an outside receiver.

“It’s way easier,” he said. “Being pressed as a speed guy, people can’t get their hands on you. You have different advantages to use.”

CU has bigger receivers such as Tony Brown (6-foot-1), Kabion Ento (6-3), Laviska Shenault (6-1) and Juwann Winfree (6-3) who seem to be better fits for the outside. However, Nixon and Chiaverini pointed out that one of the best receivers in the NFL, Antonio Brown of the Pittsburgh Steelers, isn’t much bigger than Nixon and he lines up on the outside.

“It really comes down to speed and quickness and short area space awareness,” Chiaverini said. “(Nixon) is very good at being able to get open, if it’s on a curl route or a comeback route. His short-area explosiveness is really impressive.”

Nixon said getting on the field last year helped his progression as a player and also humbled him, as he had to learn to take a backup role. He also credits Winfree for helping him get better.

“Juwann is a true leader, a big brother, and he’s taken me in, showing me different ways to get open,” Nixon said. “I’m just thankful for him and being able to learn from him.”