Billionaire Profile
Jerry Jones & family
Global Rank
#110

Image: Public domain | via Wikimedia Commons

Jerry Jones & family

CEO, Dallas Cowboys
US
Real-Time Net Worth
$21.8B
As of December 2025
Age
83
Source
Dallas Cowboys
Industry
sports
Citizenship
US

Biography

Jerral Wayne Jones Sr., born October 13, 1942, is the owner, president, and general manager of the Dallas Cowboys. A former University of Arkansas football co-captain, Jones transformed the Cowboys into a global brand and the world's most valuable sports franchise. His success extends to the energy sector and other ventures, making him one of America's wealthiest individuals. Jones's career includes pivotal moments in securing lucrative television deals and expanding the NFL's financial prosperity. His leadership is marked by both high visibility and controversial decisions. As the owner and GM, he has built a legacy, with his family playing crucial roles in the team's operations.

Wealth Over Time

In-Depth Profile

Early Life

Jerry Jones was born on October 13, 1942, in Los Angeles, California. His family moved to North Little Rock, Arkansas, where his parents owned grocery stores. Jones excelled in high school football and was co-captain of the University of Arkansas 1964 national championship team.

Rise to Success

After graduating with a business degree, Jones initially ventured into the pizza restaurant business before finding success in the oil and gas industry. He founded Jones Oil and Land Lease, becoming a major player in the oil business. In 1989, Jones purchased the Dallas Cowboys for $140 million, transforming the team into one of the most valuable sports franchises in the world. He was instrumental in securing lucrative television deals, contributing significantly to the NFL's financial success. Under his ownership, the Cowboys have won three Super Bowls.

Key Business Strategies

Jones focused on reducing overhead and finding new revenue streams for the Cowboys, including securing sponsorships and building a new stadium, AT&T Stadium. He has expanded his business interests into real estate, hospitality, and Papa John's pizza franchises. A key strategy has been to build the team as a global brand, leveraging star players and the Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders. He has increased his ownership stake in Comstock Resources, demonstrating a continued focus on energy investments.

Philanthropy

While specific figures are hard to pinpoint, Jerry Jones and his family are involved in several philanthropic initiatives. They are known for supporting various charitable causes and community initiatives, though the exact monetary amounts are not readily available in the search results. Their involvement reflects a commitment to giving back to the community and supporting various causes.

Career Milestones

1964

University of Arkansas Football Co-Captain

Co-captained the University of Arkansas' national championship football team.

1971

Founded Jones Oil and Land Lease

Established an oil and gas exploration business.

1989

Purchased Dallas Cowboys

Acquired the Dallas Cowboys for $140 million.

1992, 1993, 1995

Super Bowl Champion

Won three Super Bowls with the Dallas Cowboys (XXVII, XXVIII, and XXX).

2017

Pro Football Hall of Fame Induction

Inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame.

Philanthropy & Social Impact

Community and Sports

Various Charitable Causes

Undisclosed

Supports numerous charitable causes and community initiatives.

Business Philosophy & Leadership

Notable Quotes

""When I look back on my life, I overpaid for my big successes every time.""

""The only way to break out is to gamble — take a chance with that first pick if you wanna dramatically improve your team.""

""I build rosters for Super Bowls, not moral victories.""

Leadership Principles

Visible, vocal leadership

Believes in decisive, passionate leadership.

Relentless pursuit of excellence

An intolerance for mediocrity, focused on winning and achieving consistently high results.

Controversies & Challenges

2022

Alleged Paternity Suit

Faced legal action from a woman claiming to be his biological daughter.

2022

Historical Photo Controversy

A 1957 photograph surfaced showing Jones witnessing an argument during the desegregation of a high school.

Various

Public Criticism and Fines

Has been fined by the NFL for public comments on officiating and labor issues.