Jerry Jones acquired the Dallas Cowboys in 1989 for $140 million following his success in the oil industry. Today, the team’s value has soared to $15.5 billion, making it the most valuable sports team globally. Under Jones’ ownership, the Cowboys have won three Super Bowl championships and grown into a major brand in professional sports.
As Jones approaches his 84th birthday in October, questions arise about the future leadership of the Cowboys. Despite some health concerns in recent years, Jones expressed little concern about succession plans, stating, “I don’t have a succession plan, I don’t. One day I just won’t be here to toss my two cents in,” in an interview with Zak Keefer of The Athletic.
Currently, the most likely successor appears to be his son, Stephen Jones. At 62, Stephen serves as the team’s co-owner, CEO, and director of player personnel. He has been deeply involved with the franchise for much of his life and plays a significant role in major organizational decisions. Former Cowboys quarterback Troy Aikman noted that Stephen’s lack of ego differentiates him from his father, which could benefit him in leadership.
Meanwhile, Jerry Jones continues to focus on the current challenges facing the Cowboys. The team has not secured a Super Bowl victory since 1995, and recent efforts have been aimed at revamping the roster to create a championship contender. In January, Jones expressed his ambition to retire as the owner with the most Super Bowl wins. Currently, New England Patriots owner Robert Kraft holds that title with six Super Bowl rings, compared to Jones’ three. The pressure to bridge this gap remains on Jones and the Cowboys.