Early Life and Education of Jason Garrett: A Complete Timeline

By Popular Timelines Editorial Team · Updated: February 14, 2026

How education and upbringing influenced the life of Jason Garrett. A timeline of key moments.

Jason Garrett is a former American football player and coach. He is best known for his tenure as the head coach of the Dallas Cowboys from 2010 to 2019. Prior to coaching, Garrett played quarterback in the NFL for several teams including the Cowboys, New York Giants, Tampa Bay Buccaneers, and Miami Dolphins. As a coach, he led the Cowboys to three NFC East titles but ultimately didn't achieve a Super Bowl appearance, leading to his departure after a decade with the team.

Sections (3)

Full Timeline Early Life & Education Career & Achievements

1960: Cowboys Founded

In 1960 the Dallas Cowboys were founded.

March 28, 1966: Jason Garrett Born

On March 28, 1966, Jason Calvin Garrett was born. He would later become a professional football player and the head coach of the Dallas Cowboys.

Others born on this day/year

1984: Graduation from University School

In 1984, Jason Garrett graduated from University School where he had lettered in football, basketball, and baseball. As a senior, he received All-League honors as a quarterback and safety.

1985: Transferred to Columbia University

In 1985, Jason Garrett transferred to Columbia University after beginning as the starting quarterback at Princeton. The transfer occurred when his father, Jim, became the head coach at Columbia.

1986: Sat out season due to transfer rules.

In 1986, Garrett sat out the season due to transfer rules, but he practiced with the scout team including his brothers.

1986: Transferred to Princeton, Ineligible to Play

In 1986, Jason Garrett and his brothers transferred to Princeton following their father's resignation from Columbia. Jason was ineligible to play varsity due to transfer rules.

1987: Jim Garrett Joins Cowboys as Scout

In 1987, Jason Garrett's father, Jim Garrett, began his tenure as a scout for the Dallas Cowboys.

1989: Earned Degree in History

In 1989, Jason Garrett earned a degree in history from Princeton University, with his senior thesis focused on "The Revolt of the Black Athlete as Initiated by Harry Edwards".

1991: Judd Garrett All-World League Honor

In 1991, Judd Garrett, Jason's younger brother, earned second-team All-World League honors after leading the league in catches while playing for the London Monarchs. He is the only Garrett brother to have a World Bowl ring.