The Dallas Cowboys are one of the most famous sports franchises in the world. Fans often ask who owns Dallas Cowboys today, especially given the team’s iconic status in American football. Ownership plays a crucial role in shaping the Cowboys’ direction, both on and off the field.
Dallas Cowboys Profile
The Dallas Cowboys is one of the most iconic teams in American sports. Based in Arlington, Texas, they compete in the NFL as a member of the NFC East division. Founded in 1960, the Cowboys became the first modern-era expansion team in the league. They quickly transformed into a national powerhouse both on and off the field.
The Cowboys’ identity is tied to innovation and cultural influence. They were among the first NFL teams to adopt advanced scouting systems, embrace mass merchandising, and cultivate a nationwide brand presence. Their silver star logo, combined with their navy and white uniforms, has become globally recognizable.
The franchise has a long tradition of winning. They have claimed five Super Bowl titles, 10 conference championships, and more than 20 division titles. Beyond the field, their business success is unmatched. With AT&T Stadium, luxury branding, and global marketing, the Cowboys are valued at over $9.5 billion in 2025, making them the most valuable sports team in the world.
Their popularity earned them the nickname “America’s Team,” a term coined in 1979, and they continue to attract one of the largest fan bases in professional sports.
Founders and Formative Years
The Dallas Cowboys were founded by Clint Murchison Jr. and Bedford Wynne.
- Clint Murchison Jr. was a Texas oilman and investor who saw the financial and cultural potential of bringing professional football to Dallas. His determination and strategic maneuvering were crucial in securing the NFL’s 13th franchise. Murchison was known for his creative business tactics, famously acquiring the rights to the Washington Redskins’ fight song as leverage to overcome opposition to the Cowboys’ entry into the league.
- Bedford Wynne was a Dallas businessman and real estate developer. While his stake was smaller than Murchison’s, his contributions in the early years helped stabilize the team’s finances and establish its community connections.
Murchison quickly built a leadership team that would define the Cowboys for decades. He hired Tex Schramm as team president and general manager, Gil Brandt as vice president of player personnel, and Tom Landry as head coach. This trio shaped the Cowboys’ scouting methods, roster construction, and playing style, laying the foundation for one of the NFL’s great dynasties.
Major Milestones of the Dallas Cowboys
- 1960 – Founding and Inaugural Season: The Cowboys entered the NFL as an expansion team, paying $600,000 for the franchise rights. Their first season was difficult, finishing 0–11–1.
- 1966 – First Winning Season: The Cowboys posted their first winning record and claimed the NFL Eastern Conference title, marking their arrival as a competitive franchise.
- 1967 – The “Ice Bowl”: Dallas played the legendary NFL Championship Game against the Green Bay Packers in freezing conditions, narrowly losing 21–17.
- 1971 – Move to Texas Stadium: The team relocated from the Cotton Bowl to Texas Stadium in Irving, Texas, which would become their iconic home for decades.
- 1972 – First Super Bowl Victory: Dallas defeated the Miami Dolphins in Super Bowl VI, led by quarterback Roger Staubach. This cemented them as an NFL powerhouse.
- 1978 – Second Super Bowl Win: The Cowboys captured Super Bowl XII with a dominant defense, becoming the first team to have co-MVPs (Randy White and Harvey Martin).
- 1979 – “America’s Team” Nickname: During a national broadcast, announcers referred to Dallas as “America’s Team,” a nickname that stuck and remains their identity today.
- 1984 – Ownership Change to H.R. “Bum” Bright: After two decades under the Murchison family, Bright purchased the Cowboys, though financial difficulties soon followed.
- 1989 – Jerry Jones Buys the Cowboys: Jerry Jones acquired the franchise for $140 million, a record at the time. He controversially fired legendary coach Tom Landry and began reshaping the team.
- 1992–1995 – 1990s Dynasty: Under coaches Jimmy Johnson and Barry Switzer, the Cowboys won three Super Bowls (XXVII, XXVIII, and XXX), with stars like Troy Aikman, Emmitt Smith, and Michael Irvin leading the way.
- 2009 – Opening of AT&T Stadium: The Cowboys unveiled their state-of-the-art home in Arlington, featuring the world’s largest video board and luxury facilities.
- 2020s – Most Valuable Sports Franchise: By 2025, the Cowboys’ valuation reached over $9 billion, maintaining their spot as the most valuable team in all of sports. Their brand power and business model remain unmatched in the NFL.
- 2025 – $9 Billion Valuation: Forbes valued the Cowboys at over $9 billion, making them the most valuable sports team in the world.
- 2025 – Leadership Transition in Focus: While Jerry Jones remains owner and president, his children—Stephen Jones, Charlotte Jones Anderson, and Jerry Jones Jr.—have taken on larger leadership roles, preparing for the long-term future of the franchise.
Who Owns Dallas Cowboys?
The Dallas Cowboys is privately owned, which sets them apart from many sports franchises that have multiple investors or corporate shareholders. Ownership of the team rests entirely with Jerry Jones and his family.
Unlike other NFL teams where decision-making is shared, Jones maintains complete control of both business and football operations. His children also play significant roles in shaping the team’s future, ensuring the Cowboys remain a family-run dynasty.
The Cowboys was initially owned by Clint Murchison Jr. and Bedford Wynne. The only major acquisition in their history occurred in 1989, when Jerry Jones purchased the team from H.R. “Bum” Bright. Since then, there has been no change in ownership. The Jones family has kept full control without selling shares or bringing in outside investors.
Though Jerry Jones is the sole owner, his children are deeply involved in the franchise’s operations:
- Stephen Jones manages player contracts, salary cap, and football operations.
- Charlotte Jones Anderson leads branding, sponsorship, and community programs.
- Jerry Jones Jr. handles marketing, sales, and revenue initiatives.
Jerry Jones – Principal Owner, President, and General Manager
Jerry Jones purchased the Dallas Cowboys in 1989 for $140 million. In 2025, that investment is worth over $9.5 billion, making it one of the most successful purchases in sports history. Jones is the sole owner of the team and holds 100% control. He serves as president and general manager, a rare combination of titles in the NFL. This gives him authority over player acquisitions, contracts, coaching hires, and long-term strategy.
Jones’ ownership style is hands-on. He is deeply involved in branding, sponsorship negotiations, and the Cowboys’ broader business ventures. His leadership helped turn the franchise into a global sports empire. Jones has also been a central figure in NFL business matters, including television contracts and stadium development.
Stephen Jones – Executive Vice President and Director of Player Personnel
Stephen Jones, Jerry’s eldest son, plays a crucial role in the day-to-day operations of the Cowboys. As Executive Vice President, Chief Operating Officer, and Director of Player Personnel, he oversees salary cap management, player negotiations, and roster building.
In 2025, Stephen is widely regarded as the most likely heir to full control of the franchise after Jerry Jones.
Stephen’s influence has grown steadily over the years, particularly in football decision-making. He was instrumental in constructing AT&T Stadium and continues to guide the team’s business and football strategy.
Charlotte Jones Anderson – Chief Brand Officer
Charlotte Jones Anderson, Jerry Jones’ daughter, oversees the Cowboys’ brand management, marketing, and community outreach. As Chief Brand Officer, she has built the Cowboys into one of the most recognized sports brands worldwide.
She manages sponsorships, partnerships, and philanthropic efforts, ensuring the Cowboys maintain both their business dominance and cultural influence.
Her leadership has helped the Cowboys secure record-breaking sponsorship deals and maintain their reputation as America’s Team.
Jerry Jones Jr. – Executive Vice President of Sales and Marketing
Jerry Jones Jr., the youngest son, serves as Executive Vice President and Chief Sales and Marketing Officer. He oversees sales strategies, corporate partnerships, and revenue-generating initiatives for the Cowboys. His work has been essential in leveraging AT&T Stadium as a multi-event venue, hosting concerts, major sporting events, and international games.
Jerry Jones Jr. has further expanded the Cowboys’ global commercial footprint, enhancing their status as the most valuable franchise in sports.
Dallas Cowboys Ownership History
The Dallas Cowboys’ ownership story spans over six decades, beginning with Texas businessmen who brought professional football to Dallas and leading to Jerry Jones’ era of full private control. Each ownership change has marked a new chapter in the team’s history.
Founding Ownership – Clint Murchison Jr. and Bedford Wynne (1960–1984)
The Cowboys were founded in 1960 by Texas oilman Clint Murchison Jr. and his business partner Bedford Wynne. Murchison held the majority stake and was the driving force behind the franchise. He famously secured the rights to the Washington Redskins’ fight song as leverage to obtain approval for the Cowboys’ entry into the NFL.
Under Murchison, the Cowboys established themselves as a competitive team. He hired Tex Schramm, Gil Brandt, and Tom Landry, who together shaped the Cowboys into a model franchise.
During his ownership, the team won two Super Bowls (1972, 1978) and became one of the league’s most popular teams.
By the early 1980s, financial struggles forced Murchison to sell.
Bum Bright Era (1984–1989)
In 1984, Dallas businessman Harvey Roberts “Bum” Bright purchased the Cowboys from Murchison. Bright, a banker and oilman, acquired the team during a time when it faced declining success on the field.
However, his ownership coincided with financial difficulties in Texas’ oil and banking industries. As a result, Bright was unable to invest heavily in the team. By the late 1980s, financial pressures led him to consider selling the franchise.
Jerry Jones Era (1989–Present)
In 1989, Jerry Jones purchased the Dallas Cowboys from Bum Bright for $140 million, which was then the highest price ever paid for a sports franchise. His arrival marked a dramatic turning point.
Jones immediately asserted control, controversially firing legendary coach Tom Landry and restructuring the organization. Despite early criticism, his bold moves paid off. Under his ownership, the Cowboys became a dynasty in the 1990s, winning three Super Bowls (1992, 1993, and 1995).
Jones remains the sole owner, president, and general manager. He turned the Cowboys into a global sports empire, with a valuation surpassing $9.5 billion in 2025. His leadership style blends aggressive business strategy with direct involvement in football decisions, making him one of the most influential figures in the NFL.
The Future – Jones Family Legacy
Although Jerry Jones is the sole owner, his children—Stephen Jones, Charlotte Jones Anderson, and Jerry Jones Jr.—hold major executive roles. They are widely expected to inherit control of the franchise in the future, keeping ownership within the Jones family for the next generation.
Jerry Jones Net Worth
Jerry Jones is one of the richest team owners in the world. His fortune extends far beyond the Dallas Cowboys, though the team remains his most valuable asset. As of September 2025, his net worth is estimated at over $14 billion, placing him among the wealthiest figures in sports and business.
Early Wealth – Oil and Gas Investments
Before purchasing the Cowboys, Jones made his fortune in the oil and gas industry. In the 1970s and 1980s, he invested in Arkansas oil drilling projects and built a successful energy exploration business. These early ventures gave him the financial strength to pursue major acquisitions like the Cowboys in 1989.
Investment in the Dallas Cowboys
When Jones bought the Cowboys in 1989 for $140 million, many considered it a risky investment. However, the value of the franchise has skyrocketed under his ownership.
As of September 2025, the Cowboys are worth more than $9.5 billion, accounting for the majority of Jones’ personal wealth. The appreciation of the franchise remains one of the most successful sports investments in history.
Business Ventures Beyond Football
Jones has expanded his fortune through multiple ventures outside the Cowboys:
- Oil & Gas: Continued investments in energy exploration have provided steady returns.
- Real Estate: Jones has invested in commercial and residential real estate projects across the U.S.
- Hospitality: He has stakes in luxury hotels and entertainment ventures, often tied to Cowboys’ branding.
- AT&T Stadium Ventures: Hosting concerts, college football games, and other events at AT&T Stadium adds significant revenue streams linked to Jones’ ownership.
NFL Business Influence
Jones is not just wealthy because of his franchise ownership. He has been a powerful figure in shaping NFL revenue models. He was a key driver behind the league’s massive television contracts, sponsorship deals, and stadium economics. His role in increasing league-wide profits has also enhanced his personal wealth, as the Cowboys’ share of NFL revenues continues to grow annually.
Luxury Lifestyle and Assets
Jerry Jones’ net worth also reflects his personal lifestyle and assets:
- He owns multiple luxury homes, including a mansion in Highland Park, Texas.
- He has investments in art collections and luxury vehicles.
- His family is deeply integrated into his wealth, with his children occupying senior leadership roles in the Cowboys.
Valuation and Standing in 2025
As of September 2025, Jerry Jones’ net worth exceeds $14 billion, with the Cowboys accounting for over half of that figure. His fortune continues to grow as the NFL expands its international reach and media revenues. Jones is consistently ranked among the richest sports owners worldwide, and his wealth gives him unmatched influence in the business of football.
Dallas Cowboys Net Worth
The Dallas Cowboys are the most valuable sports franchise in the world. As of September 2025, the team’s net worth exceeds $9.5 billion, a valuation that reflects not only their on-field success but also their dominance as a global sports brand. The Cowboys have consistently ranked as the NFL’s richest team for over a decade, fueled by a combination of stadium revenues, sponsorship deals, and merchandise sales.
Here’s a detailed 10-year historical net worth of the Dallas Cowboys:
| Year | Estimated Net Worth | Key Drivers of Valuation |
|---|---|---|
| 2015 | $4.0 billion | Consistently ranked as most valuable NFL team; strong merchandising and TV revenues. |
| 2016 | $4.2 billion | Expanded sponsorship deals and strong ticket sales; AT&T Stadium revenue grows. |
| 2017 | $4.8 billion | Increased global branding; peak in merchandise sales after playoff run. |
| 2018 | $5.0 billion | First U.S. sports team to reach $5 billion; major sponsorship renewals. |
| 2019 | $5.5 billion | Record attendance and new corporate partnerships; AT&T Stadium hosts major events. |
| 2020 | $5.7 billion | Despite pandemic, Cowboys retain valuation lead; strong digital fan engagement. |
| 2021 | $6.5 billion | NFL media rights deal boosts value; continued global fan expansion. |
| 2022 | $8.0 billion | Cowboys hit record valuation, outpacing all sports franchises worldwide. |
| 2023 | $8.5 billion | Expanded sponsorship portfolio; strong international branding push. |
| 2024 | $9.2 billion | Franchise crosses $9B mark; growing influence in streaming/media deals. |
| 2025 | $9.5 billion | Remains world’s most valuable sports team; revenue leadership across sponsorship, media, and stadium operations. |
Growth in Valuation
When Jerry Jones purchased the franchise in 1989 for $140 million, it was already one of the NFL’s more visible teams but far from the global powerhouse it is today. Over three decades, the Cowboys’ valuation skyrocketed by more than 60 times, surpassing other iconic franchises in football, basketball, baseball, and even European soccer clubs.
Stadium Revenues – AT&T Stadium
One of the biggest drivers of the team’s worth is AT&T Stadium, often called “Jerry World.” Opened in 2009, it cost $1.2 billion to build and remains one of the most advanced sports venues in the world. The stadium generates huge income not only from Cowboys games but also from:
- Concerts by international artists
- College football games and championships
- Boxing and MMA events
- Corporate sponsorships and luxury suite rentals.
These additional revenue streams make AT&T Stadium a financial powerhouse, directly boosting the Cowboys’ net worth.
Sponsorships and Partnerships
The Cowboys have the most lucrative sponsorship portfolio in the NFL. Major companies like AT&T, Pepsi, Ford, and American Airlines are long-time partners. Their sponsorship deals are worth hundreds of millions annually, and global brands see the Cowboys as a gateway to U.S. sports fans.
Merchandise and Branding
The Cowboys’ nickname, “America’s Team,” is not just branding—it is a business advantage. Cowboys merchandise is consistently among the NFL’s top sellers. From jerseys to collectibles, their global fan base drives annual merchandise revenues far higher than most teams.
Media and Broadcast Rights
As part of the NFL, the Cowboys benefit from massive TV contracts, but their value goes beyond that. Being one of the league’s most-watched teams, their games are often featured in prime-time slots, boosting advertising value and reinforcing their dominance in broadcast revenue.
Global Brand Value
The Cowboys have expanded beyond football into a global sports brand. Their fan base stretches internationally, with a growing presence in Mexico, Europe, and Asia. Their international recognition further increases their commercial and sponsorship potential, enhancing their valuation.
Comparison to Other Teams
At over $9.5 billion in 2025, the Cowboys’ net worth is nearly $1.5 billion higher than the second-most valuable NFL team, the New England Patriots. They also surpass leading global soccer clubs like Real Madrid and Manchester United. This makes the Cowboys not only America’s richest football team but also the most valuable sports franchise in the world.
Future Outlook
With the NFL expanding international games and exploring new media partnerships (including streaming), the Cowboys’ valuation is expected to rise further. The Jones family has positioned the team not only as a sports franchise but also as a global entertainment empire, ensuring continued growth in the years ahead.
Who is the CEO of Dallas Cowboys?
The Dallas Cowboys, unlike many franchises, are not led by a traditional corporate-appointed CEO. Instead, ownership and executive leadership are intertwined. As of 2025, Jerry Jones serves as the de facto CEO of the team, holding the titles of Owner, President, and General Manager. This unique arrangement gives him direct control over both business operations and football decisions, a rare setup in the NFL.
Jerry Jones – The Acting CEO
Jerry Jones has held leadership of the Cowboys since purchasing the team in 1989. While his official titles include Owner, President, and General Manager, he also oversees the franchise’s business empire, functioning as the team’s chief executive decision-maker.
- Role in Decisions: He has final authority on player acquisitions, coaching hires, and business strategy.
- Visionary Leadership: Jones spearheaded the construction of AT&T Stadium and The Star in Frisco, both cornerstones of the Cowboys’ revenue streams.
- Global Expansion: Under his leadership, the Cowboys became a worldwide brand valued at nearly $9.5 billion in 2025.
Executive Leadership Structure
While Jerry Jones is the central decision-maker, his family also plays significant roles in the team’s operations:
- Stephen Jones (Executive Vice President, CEO-equivalent functions): Acts as Jerry’s right-hand man, managing salary cap strategy, stadium operations, and sponsorship deals. Many consider him the eventual successor to Jerry.
- Charlotte Jones Anderson (Chief Brand Officer): Oversees marketing, fan engagement, and sponsorships, ensuring the Cowboys remain “America’s Team” on a global scale.
- Jerry Jones Jr. (Chief Sales & Marketing Officer): Manages business development, stadium revenues, and new corporate partnerships.
Together, the Jones family functions as an executive board, but Jerry Jones remains the central CEO-like figure.
Past Leadership and CEO Role
The Cowboys have historically been unique in executive management:
- 1960–1989 (Murchison Era): Clint Murchison Jr., the team’s original owner, delegated business and football operations to hired executives. Tex Schramm served as President and general manager during this period.
- 1989–Present (Jones Era): Jerry Jones consolidated all roles under his leadership, replacing traditional CEO and president structures. This gave him unprecedented control but also drew criticism when football results lagged behind business success.
Decision-Making Style
Jerry Jones is known for his hands-on leadership. Unlike other NFL owners who leave football operations to general managers, Jones directly influences:
- Draft decisions
- Player trades and contracts
- Coaching hires and firings
- Media negotiations and league-wide business initiatives.
His involvement in both football and business decisions has shaped the Cowboys into not only a sports franchise but also a global entertainment empire.
Final Words
The Dallas Cowboys is not just a football team but a global sports empire. Jerry Jones, as the sole owner, has transformed the franchise into the most valuable sports team in the world. From humble beginnings in 1960 to their billion-dollar valuation today, the Cowboys’ story is tied closely to his vision and investments. The future of the Cowboys remains firmly in the Jones family’s hands.
FAQs
Who owns Dallas Cowboys now?
The Dallas Cowboys are currently owned by Jerry Jones, who purchased the franchise in 1989 for $140 million. As of 2025, he remains the sole controlling owner, with his family involved in the management and operations of the team.
Who owns Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders?
The Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders are owned by the Dallas Cowboys organization itself, which means Jerry Jones indirectly owns the cheerleading squad as part of the franchise. Charlotte Jones Anderson, Jerry’s daughter, oversees much of the branding and operations tied to the cheerleaders.
What’s the list of Dallas Cowboys owners?
The Cowboys have had only two primary ownership groups in their history:
- Clint Murchison Jr. (1960–1989): The original founder and owner of the team.
- Jerry Jones (1989–Present): Current owner, president, and general manager, who transformed the team into the world’s most valuable sports franchise.
How did Jerry Jones make his money?
Jerry Jones built his fortune primarily through the oil and gas industry. After graduating from the University of Arkansas, he founded Jones Oil and Land Lease, which struck success in Arkansas’ oil fields. He reinvested his wealth into various businesses, including real estate and investments, before acquiring the Cowboys.
Who owns Dallas Cowboys Stadium?
AT&T Stadium, the home of the Dallas Cowboys, is owned by the City of Arlington, Texas, but the Cowboys and Jerry Jones control operations through a long-term lease and management agreement. The stadium’s revenue streams are heavily tied to the Cowboys’ business empire.
Who is the founder of Dallas Cowboys?
The Dallas Cowboys were founded in 1960 by Clint Murchison Jr., a Texas businessman. He secured the NFL expansion rights that brought professional football to Dallas and appointed Tex Schramm as the first team president and general manager.
How rich is the owner of the Dallas Cowboys?
As of 2025, Jerry Jones’ net worth is estimated at $14–15 billion, placing him among the wealthiest sports owners in the world. His fortune comes from a combination of oil ventures, real estate, investments, and the massive appreciation of the Cowboys franchise.
Who owned the Dallas Cowboys before Jerry Jones?
The Cowboys were originally owned by Clint Murchison Jr. and Bedford Wynne, with Murchison holding majority control.
How much did Jerry Jones buy the Cowboys for?
Jerry Jones purchased the Dallas Cowboys in 1989 for $140 million.
Is Jerry Jones the only owner of the Cowboys?
Yes, Jerry Jones is the sole owner of the Dallas Cowboys and holds 100% control of the franchise.
Who will own the Cowboys after Jerry Jones?
It is widely believed that the team will remain in the Jones family, with his children already playing major roles in its management.
Why are the Cowboys called “America’s Team”?
The nickname came from their widespread popularity and massive nationwide fan base, especially in the 1970s.