Nashville, TN — July 3, 2025 — In a move that has stunned fans and inspired a wave of support across the NFL community, Tennessee Titans defensive superstar Jeffery Simmons has announced he is donating his entire $14.9 million roster bonus and recent sponsorship earnings to launch a new housing initiative aimed at tackling homelessness in the greater Nashville area.
The bold philanthropic gesture will fully fund the construction of 150 transitional housing units and provide 300 shelter beds through a newly formed project called the “Second Chance Housing Initiative” — a long-term partnership between Simmons, local non-profits, and the city of Nashville.
“I’ve seen the effects of homelessness firsthand growing up, and I knew that if I ever had the platform and the means to make a real difference, I would,” Simmons said in an emotional press conference Thursday morning. “This isn’t about me — it’s about every family sleeping in their car, every kid who doesn’t know where they’ll spend the night. We can’t turn a blind eye to it anymore.”
Simmons, 27, who grew up in Macon, Mississippi, spoke candidly about his own struggles as a child, recalling nights where stability felt uncertain and community support was scarce. “I’ve been blessed beyond belief through football, and it’s my responsibility to give back in a way that creates lasting change,” he said.
The $14.9 million contribution — which includes his entire offseason roster bonus and revenue from his endorsements with Nike, Gatorade, and regional sponsors — will go directly to land acquisition, modular construction, staffing, and wraparound support services for residents. These services will include mental health counseling, career training, substance recovery programs, and childcare.
City officials estimate that the initiative will serve over 1,200 individuals annually and have the potential to cut chronic homelessness in Nashville by up to 30% in the next five years.
Mayor Brenda Winters praised Simmons’ commitment as “a transformative act of leadership and compassion,” calling it one of the largest private donations to a housing cause in city history. “Jeffery isn’t just tackling quarterbacks — he’s tackling the biggest challenges facing our city,” she said.
NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell also weighed in, calling Simmons’ gift “an extraordinary example of what it means to use your platform for purpose.”
Titans head coach Brian Callahan said the locker room was in awe when they heard the news. “Jeffery leads on and off the field. The guys were speechless. He’s not just a leader — he’s a role model for generations.”
Construction on the first 50 units is expected to begin in September, with the first residents moving in by early 2026. A groundbreaking ceremony is scheduled for later this month, with Simmons inviting members of the community and former homeless residents to participate.
“This is only the beginning,” Simmons added. “We’re building more than shelter —
we’re building hope.”
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