Jerry Jones is one of the most recognizable and influential NFL owners. Jones has become synonymous with the Dallas Cowboys organization and the leadership of the NFL, but he wasn’t always an NFL owner. The Cowboys owner was a businessman. Jones cut his teeth, making a fortune in a different arena, allowing him to purchase the Cowboys.
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When Did Jerry Jones Purchase the Dallas Cowboys?
In February 1989, Jones purchased the Dallas Cowboys. Reportedly, Jones bought the Cowboys organization from the previous owner, H. R. ‘Bum’ Bright, for $140 million. Jones’ first move as owner was to fire legendary head coach Tom Landry and bring in former Arkansas teammate and University of Miami head coach Jimmy Johnson.
Shannon Sharpe says, "by no stretch of the imagination" is Brock Purdy elite:
"He's a product of the system." 👀
(via @FirstTake)
Are you sold on the #49ers starting QB?
See what Jerry Jones had to say about Purdy: https://t.co/RxfJpkmLgt pic.twitter.com/89wsHBuptT
— Pro Football Network (@PFN365) October 13, 2023
It didn’t take long for Jones and Johnson to build the Cowboys franchise in their image.
The Cowboys rose rapidly from a 1-15 record in 1989 to Super Bowl champions in 1992.
Dallas became the team of the decade, winning three titles in 1992, 1993, and 1995.
How Did Jones Earn His Fortune?
Jones’ first business venture was purchasing several Shakey’s Pizza Parlor restaurants in Missouri.
MORE: PFN Life — Off-the-Field Content
The venture didn’t go as planned, and Jones departed the failure to pursue other business opportunities. Jones decided to work at his father’s insurance company while completing his Master’s degree in business.
#Cowboys owner Jerry Jones on if he wants to see CeeDee Lamb get more opportunities:
"I don't know about that." 🤔 (via @1053thefan)
Jones compared the situation to Michael Irvin's frustration when he didn't get enough touches.
More from Jones on PFN: https://t.co/joi7U1TfUp pic.twitter.com/RtfWrdYNDO
— Pro Football Network (@PFN365) October 10, 2023
Jones turned his attention to the oil and gas exploration business, beginning Jones Oil and Land Lease in Arkansas.
Did Jones Play Football?
Jones grew up playing running back during his high school career at North Little Rock High School. Jones was a good football player, taking his talents from the high school level to the University of Arkansas. As co-captain of the 1964 Razorbacks team, he led them to an eventual National Championship.
I’ll never forgive Jerry jones after getting rid of Amari https://t.co/Nz1YSke1FM
— 𝙛𝙚𝙚𝙙•𝙯𝙚𝙠𝙚✭ (@6Blackhawks) October 11, 2023
The Arkansas program was star-studded, from the players to the coaching staff.
The coaching staff was legendary, spurning some of college football’s best coaches, including Hayden Fry at Iowa, Johnny Majors at Tennessee, and Barry Switzer at Oklahoma. Ironically, years later, Jones would hire Switzer to coach the Cowboys.
Is Jones Married?
Jones is married and has three children. The children all serve various roles within the Cowboys organization. Stephen is the COO, Executive Vice President, and Director of Player Personnel for the Cowboys. Charlotte is the Chief Brand Officer and Executive Vice President. Jerry is the Chief Sales and Marketing Officer.
What Is Jones’ Net Worth?
As of December 2019, the Dallas Cowboys owner’s net worth was reportedly $8.5 billion.