The Fever is pleased to welcome linebacker Derek Nicholson to the Tri-Cities. Derek is a 2005 graduate of Mt. Tabor High School in Winston-Salem, North Carolina. Nicholson was a USA Today All-American second team selection and was regarded as one of the top prep linebackers in the country. He finished his high school career with over 600 tackles which broke the school record which was held by his brother A.J. He was also give a four star rating by Rivals.com and listed as the 30^th best overall player in the country. Nicholson was a member of the North Carolina Shrine Bowl team and was named MVP in that game. He also played for the East squad in the Army All-American game in which he led the East team in tackles. 

Nicholson went on to star at Florida State University playing as a true freshman and later leading the Seminoles in tackles for three consecutive years 2007-2009. He was named all ACC in 2008 and 2009. Nicholson also signed a free agent contract with the Atlanta Falcons in 2009.