Jerry Jones and the Future of the Dallas Cowboys Franchise

Jerry Jones acquired the Dallas Cowboys in 1989 for $140 million after his success in the oil industry. Today, the team is valued at $15.5 billion, making it the most valuable sports team globally. Under Jones’s ownership, the Cowboys have secured three Super Bowl victories, cementing their status as a major brand in professional sports.

At 83, with a birthday in October, Jones has experienced health issues recently. This raises questions about the future leadership of the team. Jones remains unconcerned about this matter. “I don’t have a succession plan, I don’t,” he shared with Zak Keefer of The Athletic. “One day I just won’t be here to toss my two cents in.”

Currently, there is no indication of Jones distancing himself from the Cowboys brand. However, it is clear who is likely to take over: his son, Stephen Jones. At 62, Stephen serves as co-owner, CEO, and director of player personnel. He has been involved with the franchise for much of his life, influencing nearly every organizational decision. This positions him as the probable successor to Jerry’s legacy.

“From my interactions with him, Stephen doesn’t have the ego his father has. That’ll serve him well,” expressed former Cowboys quarterback and Hall of Famer Troy Aikman.

Despite the looming transition, Jerry Jones continues to be the prominent force behind the Cowboys. The team has not claimed a Super Bowl title since 1995. In recent years, they have made significant efforts to retool their roster to become a championship contender. Earlier this year, Jones stated his ambition: “My goal in life is to retire as the owner that won the most Super Bowls.” Currently, New England Patriots owner Robert Kraft holds the record with six Super Bowl wins, compared to Jones’s three.