Houston has long been known for its energy, space exploration, and vibrant culture. But in the world of sports, the city’s pride is embodied by its NFL team, the Houston Texans. From humble beginnings as an expansion team to becoming a competitive force in the league, the Texans have grown in both fan loyalty and financial value. For anyone curious about who owns Houston Texans, understanding the family behind the franchise sheds light on the decisions that shape the team’s future on and off the field.
Houston Texans Profile
The Houston Texans, established as the NFL’s 32nd franchise in 2002, have swiftly evolved from an expansion team into a competitive force in the league. Their journey is marked by strategic leadership, notable milestones, and a commitment to building a strong team identity.
Founders and Inception
In 1999, following the relocation of the Houston Oilers to Tennessee, the NFL awarded an expansion franchise to Houston. Businessman Bob McNair led the effort to bring professional football back to the city.
Under his leadership, the Texans were established, with the inaugural game taking place on September 8, 2002, against the Dallas Cowboys at Reliant Stadium. This victory was significant, as it marked the first time an expansion team won its opening game since the Minnesota Vikings in 1961.
Bob McNair’s vision was to create a team that embodied the spirit of Houston. His leadership was instrumental in the team’s early development, from establishing a competitive roster to fostering a strong fan base.
After his passing in 2018, ownership transitioned to his wife, Janice McNair, and their son, D. Cal McNair, who took on the role of CEO and later became the principal owner in 2024.
Major Milestones
- 2002: Inaugural Game Victory – The Texans defeated the Dallas Cowboys 19–10, marking a successful start to their NFL journey.
- 2002: First Overall Draft Pick – Quarterback David Carr was selected, signaling the team’s commitment to building a strong offense.
- 2004: First Winning Season – The Texans achieved a 7–9 record, showing improvement in their performance.
- 2006: Top Draft Pick – The team selected defensive end Mario Williams with the first overall pick, aiming to strengthen their defense.
- 2011: First Playoff Appearance – The Texans clinched their first AFC South division title and playoff berth.
- 2012: AFC Divisional Round Appearance – The Texans advanced to the AFC Divisional Round, showcasing their growing competitiveness.
- 2015: AFC South Division Title – The team secured another division title, reinforcing their position in the league.
- 2019: AFC Divisional Round Appearance – The Texans made another deep playoff run, highlighting their consistency.
- 2021: Rebuilding Phase Initiated – Following a challenging season, the Texans began a rebuilding phase focusing on youth development.
- 2023: Drafting QB C.J. Stroud – The selection of quarterback C.J. Stroud marked a new era for the franchise.
- 2025: Ongoing Development – The team continues to develop under head coach DeMeco Ryans, aiming for future success.
Who Owns Houston Texans?
The Houston Texans have been under the ownership of the McNair family since their inception in 2002. The family’s influence is central to the team’s operations and strategic direction.
| Shareholder | Role/Title | Ownership Stake | Responsibilities & Control |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cal McNair | Principal Owner & CEO | Majority (~60–70% estimated) | Oversees all team operations, strategic decisions, football management, and business affairs. Primary decision-maker in NFL matters. |
| Janice McNair | Senior Chair | Significant (~30–40% estimated) | Provides guidance, represents the family in ceremonial and strategic decisions, less hands-on in daily operations. |
| Other Minority Stakeholders | N/A | Negligible / undisclosed | No significant voting power or public disclosure; likely minor investors or family affiliates. |
Principal Owner: Cal McNair (65%)
Cal McNair, born in 1961, is the son of the team’s late founder, Bob McNair. He has been deeply involved with the Texans since their establishment. In March 2024, he was unanimously approved by NFL owners as the principal owner of the Houston Texans, succeeding his mother, Janice McNair.
Prior to that, he served as CEO and Chairman from 2018 onward.
Cal McNair is estimated to hold approximately 65% of the franchise, giving him majority control. This allows him to make primary decisions regarding football operations, business management, hiring of executives and coaching staff, and major strategic initiatives for the team.
Senior Chair: Janice McNair (35%)
Janice McNair, born in 1936, is the widow of Bob McNair and a co-founder of the Houston Texans. After Bob McNair’s passing in 2018, she assumed the position of principal owner temporarily.
In 2024, she transferred the majority ownership to her son, Cal, while retaining the title of Senior Chair.
Janice McNair is estimated to hold around 35% of the team, giving her a significant minority stake. While she is less involved in day-to-day operations, she still provides strategic guidance, represents the family in ceremonial roles, and participates in high-level decisions affecting the franchise.
Ownership Structure
The McNair family’s ownership of the Texans is characterized by a centralized structure, with Cal McNair holding the majority stake.
This centralized ownership allows for streamlined decision-making processes and a unified vision for the team’s future. While there are no publicly disclosed minority shareholders with significant voting power, the family’s commitment to the franchise remains steadfast.
Family Influence and Legacy
The McNair family’s influence extends beyond ownership. They are actively involved in various philanthropic endeavors through the Robert and Janice McNair Foundation, which supports education, health, and community development initiatives.
This commitment to community service reflects the values instilled by the family’s patriarch, Bob McNair, and continues to guide the team’s off-field activities.
Under the McNair family’s stewardship, the Houston Texans have navigated the challenges of professional sports ownership, maintaining a focus on long-term success and community engagement.
Their leadership ensures that the franchise remains a vital part of Houston’s sports landscape.
Houston Texans Ownership History
The ownership of the Houston Texans has been shaped by the McNair family since the franchise was founded. Over more than two decades, the team has transitioned from its founding leadership under Bob McNair to the current stewardship of his son, Cal McNair.
Understanding this history provides insight into how the Texans have maintained stability and a unified strategic vision throughout their growth.
| Owner | Role/Title | Ownership Period | Estimated Ownership Stake | Key Contributions & Control |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bob McNair | Founder & Principal Owner | 2002–2018 | ~100% (full control) | Established the franchise, managed all team operations, stadium development, and player acquisitions. Oversaw NFL expansion team launch and early team identity. |
| Janice McNair | Principal Owner | 2018–2024 | ~100% temporarily; later retained ~35% minority | Maintained leadership and stability after Bob McNair’s death. Provided strategic guidance and continuity. Prepared Cal McNair for transition to majority ownership. |
| Cal McNair | Principal Owner & CEO | 2024–Present | ~65% (majority) | Oversees all team operations, football management, business decisions, and strategic direction. Represents the family in NFL matters and leads the franchise’s rebuilding and long-term planning. |
Founding Ownership: Bob McNair (2002–2018)
Bob McNair, a Houston businessman, was the driving force behind bringing an NFL franchise back to Houston after the Oilers left in 1997. He was awarded the expansion team in 1999, and the Texans began play in 2002.
As the founder and principal owner, Bob McNair oversaw all aspects of the team, from stadium negotiations and franchise logistics to player acquisitions and management hires. Under his leadership, the Texans established their identity in the NFL and began building a competitive roster. Bob McNair remained the principal owner until his death in 2018, during which time he held a full controlling interest in the team.
Transitional Period: Janice McNair (2018–2024)
Following Bob McNair’s passing in 2018, ownership formally transitioned to his widow, Janice McNair. She assumed the role of principal owner while maintaining the McNair family’s unified control over the franchise.
During this period, Janice McNair acted as the guiding figure for the Texans, working closely with her son, Cal McNair, who was already CEO and deeply involved in football operations. This transitional phase ensured continuity in leadership while gradually preparing Cal McNair to take over majority control.
Current Ownership: Cal McNair (2024–Present)
In March 2024, Cal McNair was officially approved by NFL owners as the principal owner of the Houston Texans, taking over the majority stake from his mother. Cal McNair now controls approximately 65% of the franchise, while Janice McNair retains a significant minority stake of around 35%.
Under Cal’s leadership, the Texans are focusing on long-term rebuilding and strategic growth. He oversees all major decisions, including football operations, business management, and community engagement initiatives, ensuring that the McNair family legacy continues.
D. Cal McNair Net Worth
As of September 2025, Cal McNair’s net worth is estimated at $7.3 billion. His fortune is primarily built on his controlling ownership of the Houston Texans, now valued at $7.4 billion, alongside family legacy wealth, private equity interests, and diversified investments. This wealth positions McNair as one of the most financially secure NFL owners and a key figure in Houston’s business community.
Primary Source of Wealth: Houston Texans Ownership
The Houston Texans represent the single largest contributor to Cal McNair’s fortune. With the franchise valued at $7.4 billion in September 2025, the team ranks among the most valuable in the NFL. McNair’s controlling stake, estimated at 65% ownership, equates to roughly $4.8 billion of his total wealth.
The Texans’ growth from an expansion franchise in 2002 to a multi-billion-dollar sports powerhouse reflects the McNair family’s long-term vision.
Business and Investment Interests
Outside the Texans, Cal McNair manages assets through Palmetto Partners, Ltd., a private equity firm, and RCM Financial Services, which deals in financial management.
These investments expand his income sources beyond sports, covering energy, technology, and real estate. His business roles ensure his fortune is not solely dependent on the team’s valuation, strengthening his overall financial foundation.
Family Wealth and Legacy
Cal McNair’s net worth also reflects the enduring legacy of his late father, Bob McNair, who first amassed the family’s fortune through energy ventures and later founded the Texans.
His mother, Janice McNair, still retains an estimated 35% stake in the Texans, making the family collectively wealthier than Cal’s individual $7.3 billion estimate.
Together, the McNairs remain one of Texas’ most influential families in both business and philanthropy.
Philanthropy and Community Role
The McNair family is widely known for philanthropy through the Robert and Janice McNair Foundation, supporting education, healthcare, medical research, and local development projects in Houston.
Cal McNair continues this tradition, leveraging his wealth to maintain the family’s reputation as one of the most charitable in Texas. His contributions extend the family’s influence well beyond sports ownership.
Position Among NFL Owners
With a net worth of $7.3 billion, Cal McNair ranks within the top half of NFL owners financially. While not as wealthy as multi-sport moguls like Jerry Jones (Dallas Cowboys) or Stan Kroenke (Los Angeles Rams), McNair’s fortune still ensures the Texans remain highly competitive in financial terms. The team’s valuation of $7.4 billion highlights its growth trajectory and elevates McNair’s standing in the league.
Houston Texans Net Worth
As of September 2025, the Houston Texans are valued at $7.4 billion, making them one of the most valuable franchises in the National Football League. This valuation reflects the franchise’s steady financial growth since its founding in 1999 and debut in 2002.
Despite being one of the NFL’s younger teams, the Texans have built a strong financial foundation through media rights, stadium revenues, merchandise, and an expanding fan base.
Growth in Valuation Over Time
The Texans started as a $700 million expansion franchise in 1999. Over two decades later, the team’s value has multiplied more than tenfold. By the mid-2010s, their valuation had passed $2 billion.
The rapid growth between 2020 and 2025 has been driven by rising NFL broadcasting deals, sponsorships, and new stadium upgrades in Houston.
At $7.4 billion in 2025, the Texans are now in the top 10 most valuable NFL franchises.
Below is an overview of the 10-year historical net worth of the Houston Texans (2015–2025):
| Year | Estimated Net Worth | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 2015 | $2.1 billion | Texans were valued just above $2 billion, reflecting steady growth since their debut. |
| 2016 | $2.4 billion | Rising broadcasting revenues pushed team valuation higher. |
| 2017 | $2.6 billion | Strong fan support and market growth in Houston contributed to increase. |
| 2018 | $2.8 billion | Team value rose with new NFL media contracts. |
| 2019 | $3.1 billion | Texans entered the $3 billion range for the first time. |
| 2020 | $3.5 billion | Despite pandemic-related revenue challenges, NFL-wide media rights stabilized valuations. |
| 2021 | $3.8 billion | Recovery year with strong revenue bounce-back across the league. |
| 2022 | $4.7 billion | NFL signed new broadcasting and streaming deals, boosting valuations. |
| 2023 | $6.1 billion | Rapid increase as NFL franchise values surged league-wide. |
| 2024 | $6.9 billion | Continued strong revenue from sponsorships, ticketing, and national TV deals. |
| 2025 | $7.4 billion | Current valuation, placing Texans among the top 10 most valuable NFL franchises. |
Revenue Streams
The Texans’ strong valuation is fueled by multiple revenue sources:
- Broadcasting Rights: A major portion of the team’s income comes from national and regional broadcasting deals negotiated by the NFL.
- Stadium Revenues: NRG Stadium, home to the Texans, generates substantial income from ticket sales, concessions, luxury suites, and naming rights.
- Merchandise and Licensing: Texans apparel, memorabilia, and digital licensing contribute heavily to annual income.
- Sponsorships and Partnerships: Corporate sponsorships from energy, technology, and financial companies in Houston bring millions annually.
- NFL Shared Revenues: Like all NFL teams, the Texans benefit from the league’s revenue-sharing system, which provides stability.
Comparison with Other NFL Teams
At $7.4 billion, the Texans are not the most valuable NFL franchise but are firmly positioned within the top tier.
The Dallas Cowboys remain the clear leader with a valuation exceeding $10 billion, followed by the New England Patriots at around $8.5 billion, and the Los Angeles Rams at $8.2 billion.
Compared to these, the Texans’ valuation reflects both their relatively recent entry into the league and their steady rise.
However, the Texans outperform many older franchises such as the Jacksonville Jaguars, Cincinnati Bengals, and Arizona Cardinals, which still rank below $5 billion.
The Texans’ consistent growth trajectory shows that they have rapidly closed the gap with historic teams, thanks to Houston’s large market and the McNair family’s investments.
By 2030, if this pace continues, the Texans could find themselves closer to the top five in overall franchise value.
Influence of Market Size
Houston plays a major role in the Texans’ valuation. As the fourth-largest city in the United States and a hub for global industries, it offers immense revenue potential. The city’s economic strength lies in energy, medical research, aerospace, and technology, which provides a pool of high-value corporate sponsors. This market power directly boosts team revenues and long-term valuation.
Additionally, Houston is home to one of the most diverse populations in the U.S., helping the Texans build a wide-ranging fan base both locally and internationally. Strong attendance at NRG Stadium, high merchandise sales, and active fan engagement across digital platforms all reflect the advantages of being in a large and dynamic market. This gives the Texans a financial edge over smaller-market teams.
Future Outlook
The Texans’ financial future remains highly positive. NFL-wide revenue is projected to increase with new international broadcasting deals, streaming rights, and potential overseas games. The Texans, with Houston’s market size and their strong ownership, are well-positioned to capture a significant portion of this growth.
Planned stadium upgrades at NRG Stadium, including enhanced luxury seating and digital fan experiences, are expected to further raise annual revenues. The team’s corporate partnerships, particularly with Houston’s booming energy and healthcare sectors, are also likely to expand in value.
By 2027, analysts project that the Texans could reach a valuation of $8 billion, and by the early 2030s, they may cross $9 billion, especially if on-field success aligns with off-field growth. The franchise’s long-term outlook is one of consistent appreciation, making it not only a competitive sports team but also one of the strongest business assets in Houston.
Houston Texans Leadership
The Houston Texans’ leadership in 2025 combines family ownership, experienced executives, and football operations experts. Together, they ensure stability in both the business and athletic sides of the franchise. The organization is guided by the McNair family’s long-term vision and supported by a management team focused on building a competitive roster and growing financial success.
Cal McNair – Chairman and CEO
Cal McNair serves as the Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of the Houston Texans. He assumed full leadership after the passing of his father, Bob McNair, in 2018.
Asthe majority owner, Cal controls approximately 65% of the franchise, giving him ultimate authority over both business and football decisions. He is responsible for guiding the long-term strategy of the organization, maintaining stability, and ensuring the Texans remain financially competitive in the NFL.
Janice McNair – Senior Owner and Family Representative
Janice McNair, widow of Bob McNair, is recognized as the Senior Owner of the Texans. Though less involved in day-to-day operations, she retains around 35% ownership of the team and plays a symbolic and advisory role in the franchise. Janice is also deeply connected to the Texans’ philanthropic efforts, continuing the McNair family’s tradition of community engagement in Houston.
Hannah McNair – Vice President of the Texans Foundation
Hannah McNair, wife of Cal McNair, has emerged as an important figure within the organization. She oversees the Houston Texans Foundation and leads much of the team’s philanthropic outreach. While not directly involved in football operations, Hannah influences the franchise’s cultural and community identity. In recent years, her profile has grown as she frequently represents the team at public events, strengthening ties between the Texans and the Houston community.
Nick Caserio – General Manager
Nick Caserio was hired in 2021 as the Texans’ General Manager and continues in this role in 2025. He is responsible for roster construction, player acquisitions, and draft decisions. Caserio came from the New England Patriots, where he helped build multiple Super Bowl–winning rosters. His analytical approach and focus on long-term sustainability make him central to the Texans’ future competitiveness.
DeMeco Ryans – Head Coach
In 2023, DeMeco Ryans, a former Texans linebacker and fan favorite, was appointed as the team’s Head Coach.
As of 2025, Ryans has established himself as one of the NFL’s most promising young coaches. Known for his defensive expertise and leadership skills, he has revitalized the Texans’ locker room culture and restored excitement among the fan base. His partnership with Nick Caserio ensures alignment between coaching and front-office strategies.
Business and Operations Executives
Beyond the ownership and football leadership, the Texans rely on a strong business team:
- Greg Grissom – President: Oversees day-to-day business operations, revenue generation, and corporate partnerships.
- Jamey Rootes (legacy leadership): While he stepped down in 2021, Rootes shaped the early financial growth of the team and his influence remains part of its business foundation.
- Foundation and Community Leaders: Under Hannah McNair, the Texans Foundation plays a central role in philanthropy and brand building.
Decision-Making Structure
Decision-making at the Texans is hierarchical but collaborative. Cal McNair retains final authority as majority owner and CEO. Nick Caserio controls football roster moves, while DeMeco Ryans manages on-field execution. On the business side, Greg Grissom oversees sponsorships, ticketing, and operations. Together, this structure balances the McNair family’s ownership vision with professional expertise in football and business management.
Final Words
The Houston Texans are more than just a football team; they are a symbol of Houston’s determination and spirit. Under the guidance of the McNair family, the franchise has maintained stability while striving for excellence in the NFL. From stadium operations to player acquisitions, the Texans reflect a well-managed organization driven by long-term vision. Knowing who owns Houston Texans not only explains the leadership and strategy but also offers insight into the financial and cultural impact the team has on the city and its fans.
FAQs
Who is the owner of the Houston Texans?
The Houston Texans are primarily owned by Cal McNair, who serves as Chairman and CEO. He controls an estimated 65% stake in the franchise, making him the controlling owner. His mother, Janice McNair, holds about 35%, while other family members hold minority shares.
Who is the Houston Texans’ owner’s wife?
Cal McNair’s wife is Hannah McNair. She is active within the organization, serving as Vice President of the Houston Texans Foundation. Hannah plays a visible role in the team’s community and philanthropic efforts across Houston.
When were the Houston Texans founded?
The Houston Texans were founded in 1999 when the NFL awarded the city of Houston an expansion franchise. They began play in the 2002 season, becoming the league’s 32nd team.
Did D. Cal McNair inherit the Texans?
Yes. Cal McNair inherited control of the Texans following the passing of his father, Bob McNair, in 2018. Bob McNair had been the original founder and owner of the team. Cal transitioned into the role of majority owner and CEO, continuing the McNair family’s leadership of the franchise.
Who are the children of Janice McNair?
Janice McNair and her late husband, Bob McNair, had four children: Cal McNair, Cary McNair, Melissa McNair, and Ruth McNair. Cal serves as the most publicly visible child due to his leadership role with the Texans.
How did the McNair family make their money?
The McNair family’s wealth originated from energy and investment ventures. Bob McNair built his fortune through Cogen Technologies, a power company he sold in 1999 for over $1.5 billion. He later invested in financial services, real estate, and eventually purchased the rights to establish the Houston Texans. The family’s wealth has since expanded through ownership of the franchise and diversified business holdings.
Who is the youngest NFL franchise?
The Houston Texans are the youngest franchise in the NFL. They joined the league as an expansion team in 2002, making them the newest addition among the 32 teams.
When did the Houston Texans become a team?
The Texans officially became an active NFL team in 2002, when they played their inaugural season. Their first regular season game was on September 8, 2002, against the Dallas Cowboys, which the Texans won 19–10.