Lew Nichols III Bio
Arthur Lewis Nichols III is an American professional football running back for the Pittsburgh Steelers of the National Football League (NFL). He played college football for the Central Michigan Chippewas. During the 2021 regular season, he led the NCAA Division I Football Bowl Subdivision with 1,710 rushing yards. His impressive college career included awards for MAC Offensive Player of the Year and First-team All-MAC, showcasing his prowess on the field.
Early Life and Background
Arthur Lewis Nichols III was born on August 16, 2001, in Detroit, Michigan. He attended Cass Technical High School, where he played football under head coach Thomas Wilcher. As a senior in 2018, Nichols had a standout season, rushing for 1,078 yards and scoring 23 touchdowns on just 84 carries. His performance earned him recognition on all-state teams selected by prominent outlets such as the Detroit Free Press, The Detroit News, and the Associated Press.
Path to American Football
Following his high school success, Nichols continued his football journey at Central Michigan University from 2019 to 2022. In his first season, he appeared in four games, carrying the ball 19 times for 89 yards. As a redshirt freshman during the COVID-19-shortened 2020 season, Nichols rushed for 196 yards and two touchdowns in a notable victory against Eastern Michigan. His impressive performance earned him the Mid-American Conference (MAC) Offensive Freshman of the Year award.
Lew Nichols III Career
Early Career (2020-2021)
Nichols’s breakout season came in 2021 when he led all players in the NCAA Division I Football Bowl Subdivision with 1,710 rushing yards. He also led the nation with 311 carries, showcasing his durability and skill. Nichols had nine games where he rushed for over 100 yards, with standout performances against teams like Ball State and Kent State. His remarkable achievements during the season culminated in him being named the MAC Offensive Player of the Year.
Breakthrough (2023-Present)
Nichols was selected 235th overall by the Green Bay Packers in the 2023 NFL Draft. He signed his rookie contract on May 5, 2023, but faced challenges early in his professional career. He was waived/injured on August 29, 2023, and subsequently placed on injured reserve, later being released on September 7.
Notable Works and Milestones
After his time with the Green Bay Packers, Nichols joined the Philadelphia Eagles practice squad on October 16, 2023. He signed a reserve/future contract with the Eagles on January 18, 2024, but faced further challenges, including being waived and re-signed multiple times. On July 29, 2025, Nichols signed with the Pittsburgh Steelers, marking a new chapter in his professional career. He made his NFL debut on November 2, 2025, against the Indianapolis Colts, where he contributed on special teams.
Lew Nichols III Award Nominations
Throughout his career, Lew Nichols III has received several nominations and accolades, particularly during his college years. His performance in the 2021 season earned him significant recognition, including the MAC Offensive Player of the Year and First-team All-MAC honors.
Lew Nichols III Awards Won
Lew Nichols III has achieved notable awards during his football career. He was named the MAC Offensive Player of the Year in 2021, highlighting his exceptional performance during that season. Additionally, he received First-team All-MAC honors and was recognized as the MAC Offensive Freshman of the Year in 2020.
Lew Nichols III Family
Information regarding Lew Nichols III’s family is not publicly available.
Personal Life
Details about Lew Nichols III’s personal life, including relationships or children, are not publicly disclosed.