Rise to Success: Career Highlights of Jerry Jones

How Jerry Jones built a successful career. Explore key moments that defined the journey.

Jerry Jones is the owner, president, and general manager of the Dallas Cowboys, an NFL team. He purchased the Cowboys in 1989 and has been a highly influential, and sometimes controversial, figure in the league. Jones is known for his aggressive business strategies, marketing prowess, and hands-on approach to managing the Cowboys. He has overseen periods of significant success for the team, including multiple Super Bowl victories, as well as periods of criticism regarding coaching and player personnel decisions. He has played a significant role in the NFL's growth and popularity.

Sections (3)

Full Timeline Early Life & Education Career & Achievements

1961: Modern Security Life Insurance Co First Statement

In 1961, Modern Security Life Insurance Co., where Jones' father served as President and Chairman, released its first statement, reporting $440,299.76 in assets.

1964: Co-captained National Championship Team

In 1964, Jerry Jones co-captained the University of Arkansas national championship football team.

1965: Modern Security Assets Increased

By 1965, Modern Security Life Insurance Co. saw its assets increase to $6,230,607.

1965: Borrowed Money for Shakey's Pizza Parlor Restaurants

In 1965, Jerry Jones borrowed a million dollars to open Shakey's Pizza Parlor restaurants in Missouri.

1966: Attempted Purchase of San Diego Chargers

In 1966, Jerry Jones attempted to purchase the American Football League's San Diego Chargers, but was unsuccessful.

1970: Received Master's Degree in Business

In 1970, Jerry Jones received his master's degree in business.

1971: Founded Buena Vista Animal Paradise

In 1971, after selling the insurance company, the Joneses carved out 400 acres to start Buena Vista Animal Paradise, a tourist attraction featuring exotic animals.

1987: Johnson Led Hurricanes to National Championship

In 1987, Jimmy Johnson, who would later be hired by Jerry Jones, led the University of Miami Hurricanes to a national championship.

February 25, 1989: Purchased Dallas Cowboys

On February 25, 1989, Jerry Jones purchased the Dallas Cowboys from H. R. "Bum" Bright and subsequently fired Tom Landry, replacing him with Jimmy Johnson.

1989: Purchased Dallas Cowboys

In 1989, Jerry Jones bought the Dallas Cowboys from Bum Bright, marking a significant career milestone.

1989: Purchased Cowboys and Hired Jimmy Johnson

In 1989, Jerry Jones purchased the Dallas Cowboys and promptly replaced Tom Landry with Jimmy Johnson as the head coach.

1989: Took over as Owner, Dallas Cowboys

In 1989, Jerry Jones took over ownership of the Dallas Cowboys, a financially challenged team at the time.

1992: Won Super Bowl XXVII

In the 1992 season, the Dallas Cowboys won Super Bowl XXVII under Jerry Jones' ownership.

1995: Won Super Bowl XXX

In the 1995 season, the Dallas Cowboys won Super Bowl XXX with Barry Switzer as head coach under Jerry Jones' ownership.

2003: Hired Bill Parcells

In 2003, Jerry Jones hired Bill Parcells as the Cowboys' head coach, initially promising him complete control over football matters.

2008: Formed Legends Hospitality

In 2008, Jerry Jones partnered with Yankee Global Enterprises to create Legends Hospitality.

2016: Involved in Rams Move to Los Angeles

In 2016, Jerry Jones was involved in the St. Louis Rams' move back to Los Angeles and brokered a deal between team owners to ensure the SoFi Stadium plan passed.

2020: 32nd Season as Cowboys Owner

The 2020 NFL season marked Jerry Jones's 32nd as the owner of the Dallas Cowboys, surpassing the combined tenures of his predecessors.

2023: Equivalent Value of Cowboys Purchase

In 2023, the $140 million Jerry Jones paid for the Dallas Cowboys in 1989 was equivalent to $300 million.

November 2024: Net Worth and Cowboys Value

In November 2024, Forbes reported Jerry Jones' net worth at $16.1 billion, with the Dallas Cowboys, valued at $10.1 billion, being his most valuable asset.