Rosie Nix, ’14, from Golden Flash to Pittsburgh Steeler.
In 2010, Rosie Nix, ’14, was a freshman at Kent State and in his first season as a defensive lineman with the Golden Flashes football team. He quickly became an invaluable member of the team, having earned MAC Freshman of the Year honors and All-MAC First Team accolades, and he was the first freshman to be named MAC Defensive Player of the Year in the 45-year history of the award. By his senior season in 2013, he was voted defensive captain by his teammates and was selected to play in the Medal of Honor Bowl. Following his graduation from Kent State, Rosie made his way to the NFL in 2015 when he signed with the Pittsburgh Steelers as a fullback. He went on to play 60 games with the Steelers before retiring in 2021 after five seasons in the league. He wrapped up his career with 12 receptions for 69 yards, four carries for four yards, two touchdowns, 34 tackles and even an appearance at the 2017 Pro Bowl. Though his career took him all over the country, Rosie has stayed connected to Kent State and continues to support the university and the Golden Flashes football team.
KSU: What is your idea of perfect happiness?
RN: Perfect happiness is the ability to be free and to help others around me reach their goals.
KSU: What is your favorite trait in others?
RN: Ambition, as well as knowing when and when not to be a leader!
KSU: What trait about yourself do you like least?
RN: My patience.
KSU: Who has had the greatest influence on your life?
RN: My grandpas - all three!
KSU: What is your favorite Kent State memory?
RN: My senior football season in 2013.
KSU: What is your favorite journey?
RN: Playing in the NFL and my journey through that profession.
KSU: What is your guilty pleasure?
RN: Snacks, cookies and ice cream.
KSU: What do you consider your greatest achievement?
RN: The 2017 Pro Bowl.
KSU: If you could come back as one person, who would it be?
RN: Myself, I would just do a few things differently.
KSU: What part of your college experience most formed who you are today?
RN: Being away from my family and gaining new friends whom I love and respect like family to this day!