Mississippi State University announced that former All-American cornerback Johnthan Banks has signed a historic $35 million ambassador deal, making him the first-ever football ambassador for the Bulldogs and setting an NCAA record for the largest such agreement. The announcement, made during a packed press conference at Davis Wade Stadium on August 2, 2025, marks a new era for the program and the evolving landscape of college athletics.
Banks, a Maben, Mississippi native and 2012 Jim Thorpe Award winner, expressed his gratitude and excitement for the role. “This is a dream come true,” Banks said. “Mississippi State gave me everything—my start, my values, my legacy. To come back and represent the Bulldogs on this scale, to give back to the community that raised me, is bigger than football.”
The multi-year deal, reportedly funded by a combination of booster contributions, corporate sponsorships, and revenue from the program’s recent fundraising successes, positions Banks as the face of Mississippi State football’s outreach efforts.
The ambassador role is unprecedented in scope and scale. Banks will spearhead recruiting initiatives, focusing on Mississippi’s rich talent pool, mentor current players, and lead community engagement programs in Starkville.
He will also represent the Bulldogs in national marketing campaigns, leveraging his NFL experience with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, Detroit Lions, Chicago Bears, and Houston Texans. Additionally, Banks will work closely with the defensive secondary, sharing insights from his college career, where he tied the program record for career interceptions (16) and recorded four pick-sixes, including two against Heisman winner Tim Tebow in 2010.
Athletic Director Zac Selmon hailed the deal as a transformative step for Mississippi State. “Johnthan Banks embodies the heart and grit of Bulldog football,” Selmon said. “This partnership not only celebrates one of our greatest legends but also positions Mississippi State as a pioneer in the NIL era.
We’re setting a new standard for how programs can honor and engage their alumni.” The deal comes on the heels of the athletic department’s record-breaking $115 million revenue in the 2023 fiscal year, bolstered by an $8 million pledge to the State Excellence Fund and a $60 million football facility project, signaling MSU’s aggressive push to compete at the highest level.
Banks’ journey to this moment is a testament to his resilience. Raised by his grandmother in Maben, he rose from a three-star recruit at East Webster High School to a first-team All-American in 2012.
His standout performances, including shutting down SEC offenses and earning All-SEC honors, helped elevate Mississippi State to a No. 15 national ranking under coach Dan Mullen. Banks’ local roots and authenticity resonate deeply with fans, who chanted “Hail State!” as he took the stage. “I’m little Banks to these folks,” he said, referencing his community ties. “They’ve always had my back, and now I’m here for them.”
The $35 million deal dwarfs previous NIL and ambassador agreements in college sports, reflecting the financial evolution of the NCAA in the wake of relaxed name, image, and likeness rules.
Industry experts suggest the contract could set a precedent, with other programs likely to pursue similar high-profile alumni partnerships. “This is a game-changer,” said ESPN analyst Paul Finebaum. “Mississippi State is leveraging Banks’ star power and authenticity to build a brand that’s both competitive and community-driven.”
For Banks, the role is personal. He plans to launch youth football camps across Mississippi, inspire the next generation of Bulldogs, and strengthen ties with alumni. “I was put on this earth to help people,” Banks said, echoing sentiments from his 2023 interview with 247Sports. His coaching stints at Starkville High and Heritage Academy prepared him for this moment, blending his on-field expertise with a passion for mentorship.
As Mississippi State navigates a challenging 2025 season under coach Jeff Lebby, Banks’ return provides a spark of optimism. Fans hope his presence will galvanize recruiting and fan support, ensuring the Bulldogs’ legacy endures. “Johnthan is our past, present, and future,” said lifelong fan Mary Thompson. “This deal shows the world what Mississippi State is all about.”
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