He made his debut against Carlton in round 10 of the 2011 AFL season.[2][3] Nicholson started the game as a substitute and was brought on in the third quarter, in place of Matthew Warnock.[4] Nicholson was retained in the side for the following game and was the substitute again.[5] He replaced Colin Sylvia in the second quarter.[6]
Nicholson plays on the half back flank as a rebounding defender and is noted for his leg speed and endurance.[7]
Nicholson was delisted by the Demons at the conclusion of the 2014 season. He played only one senior game in his final year with the club.[8]