Getting to Know Bo Nix’s Brothers: Caleb Nix and Tez Johnson
Bo Nix with his dad and brother in December 2023 ; Tez Johnson and Bo Nix during the NCAAF game on November 18, 2023 in Tempe, Arizona.
Credit :
Bo Nix/Instagram ; Christian Petersen/Getty
Key Details
- Denver Broncos quarterback Bo Nix has two brothers, Caleb Nix and Tez Johnson.
- Caleb began his football career at Clemson University and later joined Jacksonville State University.
- Tez became part of the Nix family when Bo’s father, Patrick Nix, coached him.
Bo Nix’s brothers, Caleb Nix and Tez Johnson, have been a constant presence since the start of his NFL journey.
Bo was drafted in the first round of the 2024 NFL Draft by the Denver Broncos. His impressive journey included being named the 2019 SEC Freshman of the Year at Auburn University before transferring to the University of Oregon, where he led the NCAA in touchdowns during the 2023 season.
While Bo and Tez played together at Oregon, Caleb initially starred as a safety at Clemson. Bo and Tez shared a bond during their college careers, contributing to each other’s success on the field.
Caleb was born to former football player and coach, Patrick Nix, and nurse Krista Nix on February 28, 2003, just over three years after Bo, who was born on February 25, 2000. Tez, born on May 18, 2002, joined the Nix household while under Patrick’s coaching, driven by friendship with Bo.
Reflecting on his adoption into the Nix family, Tez said, “The family really saved my life. Who knows where I would have been? … I had some structure in my life. I never had the structure that I had until I moved in.”
Bo echoed Tez’s sentiment, stating, “He started living with us … he became a brother and then soon after that, he’s just like family.” Bo also has two sisters, Emma and Sara Nix.
This report sheds light on the close-knit dynamics within the Nix family, highlighting their shared achievements in football and their profound personal connections.
Growing Up in a Football Family
Bo Nix’s father, a coach, won the Alabama state championship in 2023.
Bo Nix/Instagram
The Nix family’s history is steeped in football. Their grandfather was a well-known high school football coach, while Patrick Nix is celebrated as a legendary quarterback in Auburn University history.
Bo and Caleb’s upbringing was inherently tied to the sport; they often found themselves immersed in football, whether watching games, attending practices, or playing outside.
Bo recounted, “I grew up around a football family, so it was all about high school and college football.”
Tez’s Transition to the Nix Family
Wide receiver Tez Johnson #15 of the Oregon Ducks celebrates with quarterback Bo Nix #10 after catching a 16-yard touchdown catch against the Arizona State Sun Devils on November 18, 2023, in Tempe, Arizona.
Christian Petersen/Getty Images
The bond between Tez and Bo solidified during their time at Pinson Valley High School. Bo recognized Tez’s talent and character, prompting Patrick Nix, who coached the team, to suggest Tez stay with them amid personal struggles.
Tez reflected on his upbringing, saying, “It was a struggle … but my coach, Patrick Nix, he said, “What if I take him home for a few days?” That was a turning point for me.”
Tez’s mother ultimately supported the arrangement, and today expresses gratitude for the opportunities her son has found.
“My child has been able to live out a dream … I think what I did for my child … is saved his life,” Shamika Johnson stated.
Tez’s dedication to family remains integral to his football motivation. He affirmed, “What motivates me most is family. And when I say family, it’s biological and adopted.”
Championship Success in High School
Central-Phenix City Red Devils quarterback Caleb Nix, wearing jersey number 11, in action during the Alabama High School 7A State Championship game on December 1, 2021, in Birmingham, Alabama.
Michael Wade/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images
From backyard games to state championships, Bo, Caleb, and Tez achieved remarkable success in high school football. Coached by their father, Patrick, the brothers claimed the 2018 6A State Championship at Pinson Valley High School in Birmingham, Alabama. Bo also earned the prestigious title of Alabama’s Mr. Football that same year.
In a heartfelt birthday message, Bo acknowledged Tez’s essential contributions to their championship victory, saying, “Happy Birthday to my extra brother … I’m so thankful that you’re part of our family!”
Caleb’s Mentorship from Bo
Central-Phenix City Red Devils quarterback Caleb Nix, wearing jersey #11, enters the field for the Alabama High School 7A State Championship game on December 1, 2021, in Birmingham, Alabama.
Caleb holds great admiration for Bo, particularly upon learning of his brother’s accolades. When Bo was named Alabama’s Mr. Football in 2018, Caleb took to Instagram to congratulate him, acknowledging the impact Bo had on his own life and career.
“Congrats on the greatest career in AHSAA history! … Thanks for teaching me so much,” Caleb expressed in a heartfelt post.
In response, Bo encouraged Caleb, stating, “Your time to shine now, youngin. Love you little bro.”
Caleb’s College Career
Clemson Tigers safety Caleb Nix #41 participated in the annual Orange and White inner-squad college football game held on April 15, 2023, in Clemson, S.C.
John Byrum/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images
Although Bo and Tez may be more recognized in the football world, Caleb has also carved out a successful career. Transitioning from a high school quarterback to a safety, he joined Clemson University as a walk-on, leveraging an opportunity to contribute to the program.
“Coach Sweeney gave me a preferred walk-on spot … I knew if I walk on, there’s no guarantee to play quarterback,” Caleb explained in a January 2024 podcast interview.
“Whatever I play, this is where I want to be,” he stated about his decision to embrace the change.
Tez’s Football Journey
Oregon Ducks wide receiver Tez Johnson #15 warms up before the college football game against the Boise State Broncos on September 7, 2024, in Eugene, Oregon.
Brian Murphy/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images
Tez’s football journey intertwined with Bo’s during their college years. Upon arriving at the Nix home, Tez was excited about the opportunity to play at the University of Oregon, where he and Bo would form a formidable connection on the field.
“When I came out here, he was like, ‘Bo, you get to go live my dream,’” Bo recalled, noting the significance of their partnership.
Bo’s trajectory included an illustrious tenure at Auburn, followed by a transfer to Oregon, where he broke NCAA history with 61 starts. Tez, after achieving success at Troy University, joined Bo, further enriching their bond through their shared aspirations.
Tez was later drafted by the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in the seventh round of the 2025 NFL Draft.
Family Support at the Draft
The Denver Broncos select Oregon QB Bo Nix with the twelfth overall pick during Day 1 of the NFL Draft on April 25, 2024, in Detroit, MI.
John Smolek/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images
During the historic 2024 NFL Draft, noted for the highest number of quarterbacks selected in the first round, the Denver Broncos drafted Bo Nix as their 12th pick. The moment was joyous, surrounded by family, including Tez and Caleb, who shared in the excitement.
Caleb shared a photo on Instagram, proudly holding Bo’s new Broncos jersey. He reflected on the humor of being mistaken for Bo, saying, “It was a cool weekend even if the owner thinks you are Bo.”
Tez expressed heartfelt admiration for Bo in February 2025, stating, “No matter what, Bo means everything to me. … He definitely means a lot to me.”
Caleb’s Marriage
On July 17, 2024, Caleb proposed to Regan Turner, a cheerleader from Seneca High School. Both brothers share a momentous connection through their relationships with former cheerleaders, as Bo is married to Izzy Smoke.
Regan and Caleb celebrated their engagement on Instagram, with Regan noting her gratitude, “Thank you Jesus for Caleb Nix! You are my greatest blessing.”
The couple tied the knot on June 20, 2025.
