Jerry Jones is a name synonymous with the Dallas Cowboys and the NFL itself.
As the owner of the Cowboys since 1989, Jones has been a key figure in transforming the team into one of the most valuable and recognizable franchises in sports history.
But his journey to the top didn’t happen overnight.
Born on October 13, 1942, in Los Angeles, California, Jerry Jones’s story is one of ambition, perseverance, and an unwavering desire to succeed.
In this article, we’ll take an in-depth look at Jerry Jones’s age, his early life, career, business ventures, leadership style, and how he became one of the most influential figures in the world of sports.
Early Life and Education
Birth and Family Background
Jerry Jones was born in Los Angeles, California, on October 13, 1942.
His family had deep roots in business, with his father, John “Pat” Jones, owning an insurance company called Modern Security Life Insurance Co.
This early exposure to the business world played a crucial role in shaping Jones’s future ventures.
When Jerry was just a child, the family moved to North Little Rock, Arkansas, where he grew up. His parents instilled a strong work ethic in him, and this would later drive his success as both a businessman and a sports mogul.
Education and College Career
Jerry Jones attended North Little Rock High School, where he was a standout student and athlete. He was an exceptional football player and played as a running back.
His talent on the field earned him a scholarship to play at the University of Arkansas. At the University, Jones played alongside future NFL stars and was a key part of the 1964 National Championship-winning team.
Jones graduated in 1965 with a degree in business, but his time at the University of Arkansas was more than just about football.
It was here that he made lasting connections, joined Kappa Sigma fraternity, and began to hone the skills that would help him later in life.
Business Ventures Before Football
Early Business Challenges
After graduating from college, Jerry Jones entered the world of business with the same vigor he had displayed on the football field.
His first significant venture was opening a chain of Shakey’s Pizza Parlors in Springfield, Missouri.
While ambitious, the venture didn’t pan out as planned, and he faced financial setbacks. However, this experience taught him invaluable lessons in managing and growing businesses.
Oil and Gas Industry Success
In the late 1960s, Jones made a successful foray into the oil and gas industry, founding Jones Oil and Land Lease.
The company’s exploration efforts were highly profitable, and Jerry Jones soon became a wealthy man, which positioned him to pursue bigger business ventures.
His success in oil and gas would lay the groundwork for his purchase of the Dallas Cowboys and his later ventures in sports management.
Acquisition of the Dallas Cowboys
The 1989 Purchase
In 1989, Jones made his most significant acquisition—the Dallas Cowboys. At the time, the Cowboys were owned by Bum Bright, but he was ready to sell.
Jerry Jones, who had the financial backing to make the purchase, bought the franchise for a reported $140 million. Jones did not waste any time in making bold changes.
He fired the legendary head coach Tom Landry, who had been with the Cowboys since the team’s inception. In his place, Jones brought in Jimmy Johnson, a bold move that would pay off handsomely.
Super Bowl Success and Dominance
Jones’s decision to shake things up proved fruitful. Under Jimmy Johnson, the Cowboys went on to win three Super Bowl titles in Super Bowl XXVII (1992), Super Bowl XXVIII (1993), and Super Bowl XXX (1995).
The team became a powerhouse in the NFL, and Jerry Jones’s vision for success was realized.
The Dallas Cowboys not only became an on-field force but also a business juggernaut. Under Jones’s leadership, the Cowboys became the most valuable sports franchise globally.
Jerry Jones’s Leadership Style
Hands-On Ownership and Management
One of the most unique aspects of Jerry Jones’s ownership of the Cowboys is his hands-on approach.
Jones is actively involved in all aspects of the team, including player acquisition, team management, and even day-to-day operations.
He is often seen on the sidelines during games, offering advice to coaches and players alike.
His role as both the team owner and general manager has led to some criticism, but it’s also one of the reasons the Cowboys have been consistently successful in terms of financial growth.
Impact on NFL Policies
Jones has played a crucial role in shaping NFL policies, especially regarding television broadcasting deals.
His negotiations with networks, including Fox, have contributed to massive revenue streams for the league. As a result, the Cowboys are not just successful on the field but also off the field.
Business Ventures Beyond Football
Legends Hospitality
In 2008, Jerry Jones partnered with Yankee Global Enterprises to create Legends Hospitality, a company that manages stadium operations and services.
Legends has become a major player in sports-related hospitality, managing some of the most iconic stadiums in the country.
This move shows Jones’s forward-thinking nature, as he has always been a businessman at heart, looking for new opportunities to expand his empire.
Involvement in Oil and Gas
Although Jones has focused heavily on the Cowboys, his oil and gas interests remain a significant part of his wealth.
His company, Comstock Resources, continues to be a major player in the exploration and production of oil and gas.
Family Life and Personal Interests
Family Background
Jerry Jones has been married to Armenita Jones, and together they have three children: Charlotte, Stephen, and Jerry Jr.
All three children are involved in the operations of the Dallas Cowboys, with Charlotte serving as the executive vice president and Stephen as the team’s COO.
Jones’s family has always been supportive of his ventures, and they continue to play an integral role in the ongoing success of the Cowboys.
Philanthropy and Charitable Contributions
Jones has been involved in numerous charitable activities throughout his life. He has made significant donations to the University of Arkansas, the Arkansas Sports Hall of Fame, and other causes.
Jones’s commitment to his community and philanthropy is well-documented, and he remains an influential figure in Arkansas.
Recent Developments and Current Status
Current Age and Involvement
As of 2025, Jerry Jones is 82 years old, but he remains deeply involved in the operations of the Dallas Cowboys.
Despite his age, he is still seen at almost every Cowboys game and continues to lead the team with the same intensity as when he first acquired the franchise.
Jones’s age has not slowed him down, and his influence on the NFL remains significant.
The Future of the Cowboys Under Jones
Looking ahead, Jerry Jones has made it clear that he plans to continue being actively involved with the Cowboys.
Whether it’s through business ventures, strategic management, or team leadership, Jones is committed to ensuring that the Cowboys remain a dominant force in the NFL.
Conclusion
Jerry Jones’s age may be advancing, but his legacy is firmly entrenched in the history of the Dallas Cowboys and the NFL.
His hands-on approach to ownership, his business acumen, and his contributions to the sport have made him one of the most successful and influential figures in football history.
From his early days as a football player at the University of Arkansas to his purchase of the Dallas Cowboys in 1989 and his unparalleled achievements with the franchise, Jerry Jones has proven time and again that he’s not just a sports owner—he’s a visionary.
As Jerry Jones continues to guide the Dallas Cowboys, fans and analysts alike will be watching to see how this legendary figure continues to shape the future of football.
