racial Tensions, Therapist ,Mental Health, AI theraphy

by Jeroslyn JoVonn

June 24, 2025

New Study Raises Awareness On Barriers Black Families Face In Receiving Mental Health Care

Black families face significant barriers that prevent access to mental health care

A new study is looking to spark broader conversations about the ongoing efforts needed to make mental health care more accessible for Black families and youth in the U.S.

The Child Mind Institute, in collaboration with the Steve Fund, reently released findings from the Mental Health Support for Black Families study, which highlights the attitudes toward mental health care within the Black community and reveals major barriers Black Americans face in accessing quality care. By surveying 1,000 Black parents who sought mental health care for their children and 500 young adults ages 18–24 who sought care for themselves, researchers uncovered the deep impact that racism and discrimination have on the mental health of Black youth and young adults.

“Our mental health care system must acknowledge its shortcomings and failings to effectively support Black communities across the country,” said Dr. Harold S. Koplewicz, Founding President and Medical Director of the Child Mind Institute. “Our findings reveal significant disparities and barriers to care, underscoring the need for targeted interventions.”

Survey participants identified as Black/African American, Afro-Latino, Afro-Caribbean, African immigrants, and other members of the African diaspora living in the U.S. They completed questionnaires detailing their experiences and the challenges they faced when seeking mental health care.

Key findings highlight the feelings and preferences Black families and youth have about mental health and seeking treatment. While more than three-quarters of both parents and young adults shared a generally positive view of mental health care and professionals, half of the respondents voiced concern that providers are too quick to prescribe medication to children and young adults.

Nearly half (46%) of both groups were concerned about the stigma surrounding mental health disorders and its negative effects. However, parents (28%) were less likely to be discouraged from seeking treatment for their children compared to young adults (42%) seeking care for themselves.

About half of both parents and young adults reported that white and non-Black mental health professionals often misunderstand or downplay the impact of racism on mental health when providing treatment. Respondents also reported their children facing an average of three mental health challenges, but noted they often didn’t receive treatment for all the issues they identified, highlighting significant gaps in mental health care.

Anxiety and depression were the most frequently reported mental health challenges among both groups, with young adults reporting higher rates of anxiety (69% vs. 46%) and depression (62% vs. 28%) than parents. When seeking treatment, common barriers included high costs, limited insurance coverage, long waitlists, and a shortage of local mental health providers.

To tackle these challenges, researchers recommend making care more affordable with subsidies, expanding telehealth access, increasing school-based mental health programs, and normalizing mental health conversations to reduce stigma within Black communities.

“These findings reveal a mental health system that is failing to meet the needs of Black families and young adults,” said Stephanie Bell-Rose, President and CEO of the Steve Fund. “From financial barriers to cultural misunderstandings in treatment, we’re seeing the same systemic failures whether in homes or on college campuses. This demands immediate, coordinated action.”

by Nahlah Abdur-Rahman

June 24, 2025

B. Simone Ridiculed For Sobbing Over Shopping Downgrade From Bloomingdale’s To H&M

Viewers did not all empathize with the comedian's financial struggles.

The internet has little tears for B. Simone, who nearly cried about her downgraded shopping habits.

On a recent episode of her podcast, Let’s Try This Again With B. Simone, B. Simone got real about the particular financial hardships she has faced. She spoke about how she had to walk out of Bloomingdale’s while realizing that none of their clothes really fit her budget. My Mixtapez re-shared footage of the episode.

B. Simone was almost brought to tears as she revealed she’s so broke now that she has to shop at H&M instead of Bloomingdale’s. 👀
pic.twitter.com/2W7Yntx1L3
— My Mixtapez (@mymixtapez) June 22, 2025

“I feel like it’s a breakthrough with what I’m creating with the app,” she said to her friend, Shekinah, on the podcast. “Just, my finances. Like, the budgeting. You see how I am. Nitpicking every little thing. I’ve never been like that. We were in Bloomingdale’s yesterday. I’m like, ‘We have to go to H&M.’ And I notice in me now, just nitpicking. I just don’t have it to spend, the liquid. I’m used to having liquid. And because I’ve invested in this app, in this platform, I don’t have the liquid. I got the money, but not yet. It’s coming. I have it in assets, I have it in jewelry. I’m used to seeing a certain amount in my account.”

However, not all viewers felt sympathy for the media host. In fact, some referred back to her previous comments about dating people with certain jobs, especially now that she seems strapped for cash.

“This the same woman that was up and said ‘I’ll never date a guy with a 9-5.’ Life has a funny way of humbling people I don’t feel bad for her at all,” said one commenter.

Another added, “oh my god.. get a grip.. i’ve been shopping at H&M for most of my life and it’s really not life or death like that…”

However, the episode sparked even more controversy beyond her shopping preferences. Some people felt like her tears about H&M also undermined Shekinah’s financial struggles, which included receiving government assistance to get by.

Shekinah opened up about forgiving her friend for not helping her own during an uncertain time.

“To not have resentment in my heart towards you, because I saw you do this for other people, I saw you give a check to somebody … to help them through whatever they went through,” she told B. Simone, as detailed on Blavity. “Nobody gave me a handout, but guess what … that wasn’t your responsibility.”

“God has to take me through that for my own season, for my own thing,” Shekinah continued. “I had to get my car repossessed…I had to go through the food stamp line. I had to be on Medicaid. … As a friend of somebody who has it … it’s hard to digest.”

While both women have evidently endured financial hardship, not all are virtually hugging B.Simone, whose seemingly tone deaf comments often land her in hot water.

by Sharelle B. McNair

June 24, 2025

Buy Now, Pay Later Loans Set To Factor Into Consumer FICO Scores

Women, Black and Latino shoppers, with low credit scores have been the key to BNPL loan success.

Credit scores could soon reflect how well or poorly American consumers are handling popular Buy Now, Pay Later loans (BNPL), known as a “blind spot” to lenders, CNN reports.

By late 2025, FICO plans to launch credit card suites that include BNPL data in its Score 10 and Score 10 T models so lenders can get an inside look at consumers’ repayment behavior for some of these installment loans, known as an alternative to credit cards. Several American consumers view them as having more flexible payment options or looking to smooth out larger transactions to meet their budgets better.

Experts like Bankrate’s Chief Credit Analyst Ted Rossman say the new development will either be a plus or a loss for consumers dealing with credit issues. But who will be affected the most? Data from the Federal Reserve Bank of Boston and the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau highlight that women, Black and Latino consumers with low credit scores, and those making between $20,001 and $50,000, have been the key to BNPL loan success.

They are more than likely to be BNPL users in addition to younger generational consumers. “A lot of BNPL users are often young people who don’t have long credit histories,” Rossman said. “That’s the more optimistic use case, that these people could be brought into the credit system. And if they use Buy Now, Pay Later responsibly, it should help them.”

Rossman has been keeping up with the issue of BNPL loans, also known as “ghost debt,” with Klarna, Afterpay, and Affirm being the popular ones. As the loans present an opportunity to avoid interest, there was a time when he felt these types of loans present a window to overspend, pay late, and get into trouble — symptoms that can turn into “phantom debt.” In 2024, Rossman said debt creeps up because these companies fail to report outstanding loans to credit bureaus, making it difficult for the lender to know exactly how much debt the customer actually has. “You don’t necessarily need a great credit score to get one of these loans,” the analyst said.

With FICO’s announcement, that will soon change.

During the COVID-19 pandemic, BNPLs were utilized for big-ticket items such as airline tickets or furniture, but now that they have grown increasingly popular, especially for clothing purchases and in light of America’s economic climate, a growing number of consumers have been using the loans to pay for bare necessities such as food.

According to Fox Business, LendingTree data from April 2025 reveals 25% of users have used the service to purchase groceries, a 14% increase from 2024. FICO’s vice president of B2B Scores, Julie May, says the addition represents a “significant advancement in credit scoring, accounting for the growing importance.” “Buy Now, Pay Later loans are playing an increasingly important role in consumers’ financial lives,” May said.

She feels the expansion is “enabling lenders to more accurately evaluate credit readiness, especially for consumers whose first credit experience is through BNPL products.”

living wage, basic needs, struggle, families

by Mitti Hicks

June 24, 2025

More Americans Need 6 Figures To Feel Financially Secure

The latest U.S. Census Bureau estimates the median household income in 2023 was a little over $80,000.

A new survey reveals an increasing number of Americans are concerned about their financial situation. Nearly half, or 45%, of adults surveyed in Bankrate’s Financial Freedom study reported that they need to earn $100,000 or more per year to feel financially secure. Approximately one-quarter, 26%, said they need to earn $150,000 or more. Fewer, 16%, said they need to make over $200,000.

Meanwhile, the latest U.S. Census Bureau estimates the median household income in 2023 was a little over $80,000. As inflation continues to rise and economic uncertainty increases, more Americans are feeling uncomfortable financially. Bankrate’s survey shows that the number of those who feel economically insecure rose to 77% in 2025, up from 75% in 2024 and 72% in 2023.

“One major issue is that wages have been stagnant for a large majority of the population over that time, and prices continue to rise,” Carolyn McClanahan, a certified financial planner and founder of Life Planning Partners in Jacksonville, Florida, told CNBC. “Add that to the backdrop of political instability everyone is feeling, and I think that is a perfect formula for people not feeling financially secure.”

Factors Driving Financial Insecurity

According to Experian, financial security is defined as a state of well-being that involves being able to afford one’s expenses without stress. You don’t experience constant worry about money when you’re financially secure.

Financial security is characterized by spending less than you earn and having sufficient savings to cover emergencies. There’s a feeling of being in control of your overall finances when you’re financially secure.

However, as CNBC reports, household expenses are driving the increased feelings of financial insecurity. Child-care expenses are rising, higher mortgage rates and rent costs are rising, and student loan payments are resuming.

For many Americans, the American Dream is deteriorating, which has been the case for over a decade.

“It starts long before the pandemic,” said Sarah Foster, an economic analyst for Bankrate. “There has long been this perception that we used to be in this golden age where you could own a home, a car, and get by on a single income — that is a bygone era.”

While many people are feeling uncertain about their financial futures, things are much worse for Black Americans. A study by the Massachusetts Mutual Life Insurance Company found that 45% of African Americans who make $75,000 or more per year still feel more financially insecure than people of other races.

by Black Enterprise

June 24, 2025

Offscript Acquires 3BLACKDOT, Expands Into $347B Gaming Industry With Creator-First Strategy

When Offscript Worldwide launched in April 2025, its goal was clear: build a media ecosystem that centers creators and gives them control over how content is built, distributed, and monetized.

That strategy advances significantly today with the acquisition of 3BLACKDOT, a gaming and digital media company known for building successful creator-led franchises and reaching more than 128 million YouTube subscribers worldwide. The deal marks Offscript’s formal entry into the $347 billion global gaming market and extends the company’s ability to develop IP across multiple platforms.

“This acquisition accelerates our mission to build the definitive ecosystem for creators who shape culture—and it cements Offscript’s expansion into gaming, one of the most powerful engines in entertainment,” said Detavio Samuels, CEO of Offscript and REVOLT. “3BLACKDOT has built one of the most respected creator networks in digital media. With Offscript’s full-stack infrastructure behind them—from IP development to distribution and monetization—we’re positioned to scale their impact across new platforms, audiences, and revenue models.”

A Targeted Move to Build Scale and Ownership

For Offscript, the acquisition is not about jumping into a trend but building long-term value for creators. By integrating 3BLACKDOT’s active IP slate and its proven reach among Gen Z and Gen Alpha audiences, Offscript is expanding its business to reinforce its core approach: backing creators with real infrastructure, not just distribution.

3BLACKDOT’s projects include Gaming While Black, the animated series Alpha Betas, creative involvement in the feature film Queen & Slim, and children’s bestsellers The Proudest Blue and The Kindest Red. The company also brings strong brand relationships, having delivered campaigns with Netflix, Hulu, Disney, PepsiCo, and others.

“3BLACKDOT is more than a media and entertainment company—it is a long-term commitment to the elevation of creators through amplifying their reach and empowering their storytelling ambitions,” said Reginald Cash, general manager of 3BLACKDOT. “Joining Offscript’s dynamic ecosystem allows us to supercharge our work, reach new audiences, and unlock scale without compromising the creator-first approach that defines us.”

Strengthening the Business

3BLACKDOT joins a growing portfolio of Offscript brands, including REVOLT, Rap-Up, 440 Artists, Rebel House, and Six Zeros. The companies share a model built around ownership, creative control, and long-term growth.

Offscript says this acquisition supports its broader effort to build a media infrastructure that opens up new opportunities for creators, particularly those from historically underrepresented backgrounds, to retain control over their work while building scalable IP.

As gaming continues influencing entertainment and technology, Offscript’s entry into the space reflects a clear and deliberate move: not to follow the industry, but to help shape it.

by Nahlah Abdur-Rahman

June 24, 2025

Missing Sisters Last Seen At Metro Atlanta Playground Found Safe

The sisters were last seen at a park before returning home safely the next day.

Missing teenaged sisters that were last seen at a playground in Metro Atlanta have been found safe.

Police have confirmed that Caidyn, Ashlyn, and Raegyn McCou have been reunited with their family. The trio were last seen at an apartment complex’s playground before the siblings were declared missing.

According to WSB-TV, the young girls had been spotted at The Exchange Apartments on Exchange Circle in Winder. The city is located around 50 miles east of Atlanta.

The girls were last seen June 19. However, their families and police swiftly announced a statewide call for Georgians to look out for the teen girls. Ashlyn and Raegyn McCou were described as 15-year-old twins, weighing at 150 pounds with afro-puff hairstyles. Their elder sister, Caidyn, is 16-years-old and 5-foot-8.

The Winder Police Department shared to social media how the girls returned home safely the following day. They did not share any additional details on how they returned home or what led to the disappearance.

However, the amount of Black and missing people continues to disproportionately impact the Black community. Currently on the Black and Missing Foundation’s website, over 50 Black people remain unaccounted for across Georgia.

On a national level, over 40% of all missing persons identify as people of color, while 40% of all disappeared teens identify as Black. However, media coverage often leans towards spreading awareness on white missing persons. This is often due to the desensitization to the plight of minorities and the misperception of minority children as runaways.

Despite this, the foundation remains committed to helping spotlight unaccounted for Black people to ensure they are found safe as well.

While the McCou sisters were reunited with loved ones, their story is not always the case for many who go missing. Widespread and fair coverage on all missing persons must take priority to give everyone a fighting chance to get home safely.

by Black Enterprise

June 24, 2025

Black Women Fly, Too: Steffanie Rivers Is The First Black Woman-Owned Drone Academy In Texas

she is soaring to new heights

Steffanie Rivers is no stranger to breaking barriers — and now she’s helping others break into one of the most profitable industries of the decade. As the first Black woman in Texas to register a drone academy, she is soaring to new heights with TCB Drones, a forward-thinking training company that’s creating real opportunities for people of color to earn certifications, launch careers, and command top-dollar contracts in drone technology.

Her message is clear: Black women fly, too. And it’s time we get paid for it.

Now, Rivers is inviting aspiring drone pilots, career changers, and tech-curious professionals to a free Zoom webinar:

Webinar Title: From Hobby to Hustle: Master Drone Certification and Monetize Your Skills
Date: Monday, June 23, 2025
Time: 10:00 AM CST
Register Now: https://bit.ly/dronepilotacademy

Attendees will discover how FAA-certified drone pilots are earning $300–$500 per hour, and how TCB Drones can help them become one of the few — and the first — in their communities to cash in.

“Most of the time when I walk into an industry event, I’m one of the only Black women in the room. That’s exactly why I’m here — to change that,” said Rivers.

Her programs serve high school students, military veterans, and adults looking for an alternative to traditional career paths. Through summer camps, self-paced online certification courses, and specialty training in aerial mapping, inspections, and search-and-rescue support, TCB Drones is preparing a new generation to take flight.

Rivers has already partnered with national organizations like Black and Missing, Inc. and the Dock Ellis Foundation, using drone technology for real-world impact — from locating missing persons to supporting safety efforts in vulnerable communities

This fall, she’ll take the stage as a featured panel moderator at the Commercial UAV Expo in Las Vegas, but her mission starts right at home.

“Don’t be afraid to be the only one,” she urged. “You belong in this industry. You belong in this conversation. Let’s make sure you’re also getting paid.”

by BLACK ENTERPRISE Editors

June 24, 2025

Tupac, D’Angelo, And Public Enemy’s Record Labels Sued By Dr. Khallid Muhammad’s Legacy Estate

The three lawsuits target the companies behind tracks where Dr. Muhammad’s speeches appear and the labels that profited from their sales and distribution. Defendants include those tied to songs performed by Tupac Shakur, Public Enemy, D’Angelo, and The Vanguard.

The Estate of Dr. Khallid Abdul Muhammad has filed legal action against major hip-hop artists and record labels, citing the unauthorized use of Dr. Muhammad’s speeches, voice, and intellectual property in music spanning decades without credit, clearance, or compensation.

The three lawsuits target the companies behind tracks where Dr. Muhammad’s speeches appear and the labels that profited from their sales and distribution. Defendants include those tied to songs performed by Tupac Shakur, Public Enemy, D’Angelo, and The Vanguard.

Dr. Khallid Muhammad, a revolutionary leader, former spokesman for the Nation of Islam, and a Black Panther figure, was known for his powerful speeches and unwavering commitment to Black liberation. For years, his words have been sampled by the music industry while his name and contributions were deliberately erased from the narrative.

Below are the lawsuit case numbers, along with the corresponding songs. Listen to Dr. Khallild Muhammad’s speeches as used in these tracks and compare them to the original recordings:

• 2Pac (Interscope) “White Man’z World” (1996) Case 2:25-cv-02540

• D’Angelo (RCA) “1000 Deaths” (2014) Case 2:25-cv-03480

• Public Enemy (Def Jam) “Night of the Living Baseheads” (1988) Case 2:25-cv-02324

The Estate asserts that these songs, which collectively sold millions, won awards, and shaped hip-hop culture, used Dr. Muhammad’s voice without legal permission or compensation to his family.

Even as recently as last year, Khallid Muhammad’s voice was sampled without permission, this time by Common on his 2024 track “So Many People” (Loma Vista).

Attorney Malik Zulu Shabazz, representing the Estate, made it clear: “These lawsuits are not an attack on Public Enemy, Tupac’s family, or D’Angelo. They are about accountability. The record labels and music corporations exploited Khallid Muhammad’s voice for profit, just like they’ve done to the Black artists whose songs featured him. Most of these artists don’t even own the rights to their own music. They’ve been exploited, too.”

This isn’t an isolated incident; it’s part of an ongoing pattern of exploitation.

“Khallid Muhammad should have received proper credit on these iconic records. His legacy matters. These funds will be used to fulfill his mission through schools, books, training academies, and documentaries about his life and message.”

The lawsuits seek $5 million in damages per infringement, permanent injunctions, attorneys’ fees, and the impoundment of all infringing works.

Other Artists Under Review

Formal legal letters have also been sent to Ice Cube, Common (Loma Vista), “So Many People” (2024), and Black Thought. Various projects are under legal review. The Estate is demanding documentation of any licensing, royalty payments, or legal agreements regarding Dr. Muhammad’s inclusion in their work.

“In Tupac’s case, we believe he was on his way to forming a real alliance with Dr. Muhammad before he was assassinated,” Shabazz added.

Where the Funds Will Go: Protecting Khallid Muhammad’s Legacy

Any funds recovered from this legal action will directly support the Khallid Muhammad Memorial Fund, with initiatives including:

• A National Black History Museum and Research Center

• A nationwide Black Studies curriculum for schools

• A permanent memorial and archive for revolutionary Black leaders

• Youth-focused educational programs rooted in Black self-determination

• Films, documentaries, and books about Dr. Muhammad’s life and legacy

“Trump cut funding for African American institutions,” the Estate said. “So, the family is building their own. This is about mission, not just money.” “The industry has profited off his words for decades,” said Shabazz. “That era of exploitation ends now.”

For further inquiries, contact Malik Shabazz, Esq., President, Black Lawyers for Justice at 301-513-5445 or attorney.shabazz@yahoo.com.

This news was first reported by Blacknews.com

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by Black Enterprise

June 24, 2025

Lexus ES Shoots Its Shot At Black Luxury Lifestyle For 2026

2026 Lexus ES enters a new electrified era

Written by Kimatni Rawlins

The Lexus ES was one of two launch models available when Toyota’s luxury sub-brand entered the American market in 1989, alongside its full-size LS sibling. The midsize sedan has always been reliable, efficient, and sporty. Accordingly, the Japanese automaker reimagined the architectural design blueprint for the 8th generation iteration.

Utilizing its sphere of influence, Lexus has made it a priority to integrate Black auto consumers with its marketing and media activities. For example, the company brilliantly partnered with Marvel Studios and its epic Black Panther film. I was on site at a few of the red carpet events that featured custom Lexus vehicles to match the theme of the script. Next up was the Lexus 0 to 60 campaign, which took celebrities like Omar Benson Miller racing to showcase the performance capabilities of Japanese machinery.

Then the NX hit the scene to provide comfort and styling in a smaller package. For awareness, the luxury brand dove deeper into urban lifestyles and culture. Subsequently, Lexus engaged the crossover with Black entertainers, athletes, social influencers, and thought leaders to express themselves in another light. Familiar names and faces such as musical theater performer Myles Frost, actress Nafessa Williams, NBA and WNBA analyst Monica McNutt, fashion curator Milan Rouge, and actress Khaneshia JaNea Smith all took part in the energetic video sessions produced by Automotive Rhythms.

Moving forward, Lexus just unveiled its latest innovation in the form of the all-new 2026 ES. I visited the headquarters in Plano, Texas, for the HQ Confidential unveil. The model on display was a 2026 ES 500e trim donned in a vibrant Copper Crest hue. It enters the scene with revamped styling defined initially by the LF-ZC Concept. The sedan features hybrid and electric powertrains and incorporates enhanced technologies with modern indulgences. For example, the ES is the first Lexus vehicle to adopt the intuitive Lexus Safety System+ 4.0 suite of occupant protection.

Its sharp lines and creases signal the start of a new era for Lexus, which the brand refers to as Clean Tech x Elegance. Compared to its predecessor, the sedan’s physique is completely refurbished. Sleek L-shaped LEDs replace the triple-beam headlights, while a closed-face, shorter grille indicative of an electrified powertrain relieves the hallmark Lexus Spindle Grille. It gives the front fascia a sharper, futuristic edge that may appeal to ES connoisseurs looking to upgrade.

Overall, the silhouette of the new ES is 6.5” longer and the wheelbase is stretched 3” compared to the prior model. The elongated side profile takes on the Spindle motif and evokes an aerodynamic aura. You will also find an interesting black hockey stick outline that runs through both doors, a singular light bar in the back dubbed the Rear L-Signature Lamp, and dark aero wheels (19s or 21s) wrapped in Michelin Primacy all-season tires.

The ES is engineered with three distinct powertrain options: a 2.5-liter inline 4-cylinder (FWD, AWD) hybrid system in the ES 350h, and two battery-electric variants (BEV) — the FWD ES 350e and the DIRECT4 AWD ES 500e. The hybrid setup produces 243 horsepower and accelerates from 0 to 60 mph in approximately 7.2 to 7.4 seconds. With the large-capacity battery positioned beneath the floor, the BEV ES 350e delivers 220 horsepower and has an estimated driving range of 300 miles.

The more powerful ES 500e puts out 338 horsepower and delivers roughly 250 electric driving miles. Yet, I would like to see this range increase in the near future. The cabin is completely redesigned with premium materials and thoughtful details throughout. Door panels feature intricate 3D-printed bamboo layering, soft-touch leather with embossed patterns, and customizable ambient lighting. At the center of the driver-focused cockpit is a 12.3” digital instrument cluster that pairs with the 14” Lexus Interface multimedia system, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and a sound system crafted by Mark Levinson.

For the first time in North America, the ES will offer an Executive Package, which enhances rear-seat comfort with increased legroom, power-reclining seats, and premium features such as heating, ventilation, and massage functionality, bringing flagship-level amenities to the midsize luxury vehicle.

The 2026 Lexus ES enters a new electrified era while maintaining the core principles of Japanese opulence that have defined the brand for the past three decades.

Lil Wayne, Travis Hunter, sports agent, football. NFL

by Nahlah Abdur-Rahman

June 24, 2025

Travis Hunter Becomes First Non-Quarterback To Receive Entire NFL Signing Bonus Up Front

Travis Hunter is making history with his first NFL paycheck. The incoming rookie will become the first non-quarterback to receive his entire signing bonus up front.

Hunter inked the monumental contract with the Jacksonville Jaguars. Now, the 22-year-old two-way player will get a huge chunk of his $46.65 million deal before he even plays a game.

As part of his finalized contract, Hunter will bring home his entire singing bonus of $30.57 million. ESPN Senior NFL Insider Adam Schefter confirmed the news on June 22 on X.

Travis Hunter officially signed his four-year, $46.65 million fully guaranteed contract. His $30.57 million signing bonus, paid entirely upfront, sets a new record—making him the first non-quarterback not drafted first overall to receive his entire signing bonus upfront. The deal… pic.twitter.com/3GUPghqHUJ
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) June 22, 2025

The fully guaranteed contract will pay out the rest of the funds across Hunter’s four years. Hunter already made his mark in college football, notably playing offensive and defensive positions at the University of Colorado. He intends to play as a wide receiver and cornerback for the upcoming season.

Hunter’s performance made him a top prospect in the 2025 NFL draft. The Jaguars selected him as the No. 2 pick in the first round. According to Sports Illustrated, the franchise had to give up even more to secure the chance to select Hunter. They made a trade with the Cleveland Browns, giving up their first, second, and fourth-round picks and their 2026 first-round pick.

Upon the news breaking, the Jaguars released a new interview with Hunter on his excitement for signing the historic deal.

“It’s a blessing,” explained Hunter on his intentions to explore the dual-position role. “I’m very excited to be at a place that they let go ahead, and let be myself and let me do what I do.”

The Jaguars hope this investment will lead to a return to the playoffs in the 2025 season, especially after not making it for the past two years. The team ended its 2024 season with a 4-13 record.