Jerry Jones and the Dallas Cowboys: A Decade of Transformation
Jerry Jones Attempted to Acquire Chargers Using Funds Linked to Jimmy Hoffa
In 1989, Jerry Jones, a seasoned businessman with a knack for turning ventures around, bought the Dallas Cowboys for $140 million. This marked the beginning of a new era for the team and the NFL.
The Early Years
Born in Los Angeles, California, in 1942, Jones grew up in North Little Rock, Arkansas. He attended the University of Arkansas, where he co-captained the 1964 national championship football team. After graduation, he ventured into the family's insurance business before selling it and pursuing other opportunities[1][3].
Business Strategies
One of Jones's most notable moves was firing Tom Landry, the only coach the Cowboys had known until then, and hiring Jimmy Johnson, his former teammate at the University of Arkansas. This risky decision proved to be a masterstroke, contributing to the team's success, including three Super Bowl wins in the 1990s[3][4].
Jones's financial gambles have also been significant. His purchase of the Cowboys was a substantial investment, but it paid off as the team became one of the most valuable franchises in sports, worth an estimated $12 billion by 2022[1]. He also played a crucial role in securing lucrative television deals for the NFL, which have contributed to the league's financial prosperity[3].
Impact on NFL Franchise Valuations
Jones's leadership helped elevate not just the Cowboys' value but also raised the bar for NFL franchise valuations overall. His success has been a benchmark for other teams, showing how strategic ownership and management can significantly increase a team's worth[5].
The Netflix Documentary
An eight-part Netflix documentary, America's Team: The Gambler and His Cowboys, is debuting next Tuesday, offering insights into both the on-field and off-field stories of the Dallas Cowboys and Jerry Jones[2]. The documentary features praise from business heavyweights such as NFL commissioner Roger Goodell, former Fox Corporation chairman Rupert Murdoch, and Nike founder Phil Knight for Jones's business acumen[6].
The Road Ahead
Despite the team's success in the 1990s, the Cowboys have not returned to the Super Bowl since then. They have not reached an NFC title game since 1995[7]. However, the Cowboys remain the most valuable franchise in American sports, according to the latest valuations[8].
In summary, Jerry Jones's business strategies have been pivotal in transforming the Dallas Cowboys into a lucrative franchise, while his influence extends beyond the team to impact NFL policies and valuations. The upcoming Netflix documentary promises to delve deeper into Jones's life and the Dallas Cowboys' journey.
References
- Forbes
- Netflix
- ESPN
- Sportico
- CBS Sports
- CNN
- Bleacher Report
- Sportico
