Titus Dixon, a standout receiver and kick returner, is among the most celebrated athletes in Troy University football history. His remarkable speed and athletic achievements have cemented his legacy as a key figure in the program’s storied tradition. Hailing from Clewiston, Florida, Dixon emerged as a high school track and football star during the 1980s, competing against elite athletes, including Hall of Famer Deion Sanders.
Despite his significant accomplishments at Clewiston High School, where he earned First-Team All-Southwest Florida honors, Dixon faced challenges in gaining attention from college recruiters. The interest he received was primarily from Florida and Troy. After a teammate opted for Florida, Dixon seized the opportunity to visit Troy. Reflecting on his decision, he said, “I took a visit up there and I just loved it there.”
Dixon joined Troy in the mid-1980s, a period marked by the leadership of head coach Chan Gailey, who led the team to its first national championship in nearly two decades in 1984. Dixon played a pivotal role in the team’s success, contributing to another national championship in 1987 and two Gulf South Conference Championships.
While awards and accolades define a player’s career, Dixon emphasizes the lasting bonds formed with teammates. “The camaraderie we had on those teams is something that stands out,” he noted. Much of his success was guided by legendary quarterback Mike Turk, whom he praised for his consistent leadership and tenacity.
Dixon’s contributions are etched in the Troy Football record books. His remarkable 99-yard touchdown catch in 1986 remains the longest pass play in the school’s history. He ranks fifth all-time in yards per catch in a season and 15th in total yards per catch. In 1987 alone, Dixon amassed 1,625 all-purpose yards, the fourth most in Troy history, alongside 747 kickoff return yards, which ranks fourth for a single season.
His performance in the 1987 National Championship game against Portland State was particularly memorable, as he rushed for 111 yards and a touchdown on just four carries, averaging an impressive 27.8 yards per carry. Dixon’s achievements earned him a place in the Blue-Gray All-Star game following his senior season.
In addition to his football success, Dixon was an accomplished sprinter, becoming a three-time All-American on the Troy track team. His track records, including a 100-meter dash time still ranked seventh all-time at Troy, showcased his exceptional speed. He qualified for the Olympic trials during his senior year, reflecting on his track career, he said, “I always wondered what could have happened if I had run all four of my years at Troy.”
Dixon’s athletic prowess continued to shine as he was drafted in the sixth round of the 1989 NFL Draft by the New York Jets. He expressed gratitude for the opportunity, given the limited recruitment offers he received out of high school. “I think it’s everyone’s dream growing up to have a shot at playing professional football,” he stated, recalling his childhood admiration for the Miami Dolphins and his surprise at being drafted by a rival team.
His professional career spanned nearly a decade, during which he played for the Jets, Indianapolis Colts, Detroit Lions, Atlanta Falcons, and Kansas City Chiefs. After three years in the NFL, he played for the San Antonio Riders in the World League of American Football and later competed in the Canadian Football League (CFL) and the Arena Football League (AFL). At the CFL, he recorded impressive stats, including 61 receptions for 1,074 yards and five touchdowns during the league’s expansion into the United States.
Dixon’s AFL career was distinguished, with a total of 209 catches for 2,477 yards and 40 touchdowns, alongside 3,165 kick return yards. In total, he amassed over 5,712 all-purpose yards and 53 touchdowns throughout his career in the Arena Football League.
After retiring from professional football, Dixon returned to his roots as a coach at Leesburg High School in Florida, where he shares his knowledge and passion for the game with younger athletes. “I figured that God gave me a gift to be able to understand and play a game so many people want to play,” he explained, emphasizing his commitment to helping others succeed.
Dixon expressed pride in the growth of Troy Athletics over the years, noting the improvements in facilities and the overall success of the program. He highlighted the dedication of those who played before him, stating, “Those guys helped build the tradition for such a great program there in Troy.”
Despite his numerous accolades, one honor that eludes him is induction into the Troy Athletics Hall of Fame. His exceptional contributions to both football and track make a compelling case for recognition. As Dixon’s story continues to inspire future generations, his legacy as one of Troy’s greats remains firmly established.
