Jerry Jones and the Future of the Dallas Cowboys Ownership

Jerry Jones purchased the Dallas Cowboys in 1989, investing $140 million acquired from his oil industry success. As of today, the team’s value has soared to $15.5 billion, making it the most valuable sports team globally, surpassing all others in the NFL.

Under Jones’ leadership, the Cowboys have claimed three Super Bowl titles, establishing themselves as “America’s Team.” The franchise has become one of the biggest brands in professional sports.

Despite reaching these heights, Jones turns 84 in October and has experienced health issues in recent years. The question of succession naturally arises, yet Jones appears unconcerned. “I don’t have a succession plan, I don’t,” he told Zak Keefer of The Athletic. “One day I just won’t be here to toss my two cents in.”

There are hints, however, about who may succeed him. His son Stephen Jones, aged 62, currently serves as the team’s co-owner, CEO, and director of player personnel. Stephen has been involved in the organization throughout much of his life and takes part in nearly every major decision.

Former Cowboys quarterback and Hall of Famer Troy Aikman noted, “From my interactions with him, Stephen doesn’t have the ego his father has. That’ll serve him well.” This suggests Stephen is a likely candidate to continue Jerry’s legacy.

For now, Jerry Jones remains the public face of the franchise, dedicated to restoring the Cowboys to the pinnacle of the NFL. Despite their retooling efforts to build a championship team, the Cowboys have not won a Super Bowl since 1995.

Back in January, Jones expressed his ultimate ambition: “My goal in life is to retire as the owner that won the most Super Bowls.” With Robert Kraft of the New England Patriots owning six Super Bowl rings compared to Jones’ three, the pressure mounts on Jones and the Cowboys to narrow that gap.