Jerral Wayne Jones Sr. purchased the Dallas Cowboys for $140 million on February 25, 1989, initiating a transformation that shifted the franchise from a struggling asset into a multi-billion dollar sports entity. Beyond his role as an NFL owner, his career has spanned ventures in insurance, natural resource exploration, hospitality management, and independent retail operations.
Early Development and Insurance
Born in Los Angeles on October 13, 1942, Jones spent his childhood in North Little Rock, Arkansas, where his parents operated Pat's Super Market. After graduating from North Little Rock High School in 1960, he enrolled at the University of Arkansas. He eventually joined his family’s enterprise, Modern Security Life Insurance Co., in Springfield, Missouri. Serving as an executive vice president, he helped oversee the company's rapid asset growth before its sale in 1971.
Twenty questions, eight minutes on the clock, and a percentile measured against everyone who has taken it. No sign-up.
Take the IQ test →College Athletics
Jones was an offensive lineman for the Arkansas Razorbacks under head coach Frank Broyles, a tenure marked by his participation in the 1964 national championship football team. His collegiate peers included future coaches Jimmy Johnson and Barry Switzer. Jones maintained active social affiliations during this period as a member of the Kappa Sigma fraternity in Fayetteville.
Entrepreneurial Pursuits
Following his 1965 graduation, Jones attempted several business ventures, including a string of Shakey's Pizza Parlor restaurants and an unsuccessful bid to acquire the San Diego Chargers in 1966. He subsequently found success in the energy sector through his firm, Jones Oil and Land Lease. In 2008, he expanded his business interests by partnering with Yankee Global Enterprises to establish Legends Hospitality, a diversified operation providing retail, food, and beverage services to sports and entertainment venues.
NFL Ownership and Television Strategy
Upon acquiring the Cowboys from H. R. Bright, Jones centralized control by dismissing longtime coach Tom Landry and general manager Tex Schramm. He installed Jimmy Johnson as head coach, leading the team to three Super Bowl titles during the 1990s. Beyond team management, Jones played a central role in securing Fox as the NFC's primary television broadcaster, a move that significantly increased NFL revenue and shifted the league's financial trajectory.
Fast facts
- Born: 13 October 1942, Los Angeles
- Education: North Little Rock High School, University of Arkansas
- NFL Purchase Price: $140 million (1989)
- College Football Position: Offensive Lineman
- Insurance Executive Role: Modern Security Life Insurance Co.
- Business Partnerships: Yankee Global Enterprises
- Major Franchise Acquisitions: Dallas Cowboys
Questions readers ask
What was Jerry Jones's initial career path after college?
He worked as an executive vice president at his family's company, Modern Security Life Insurance Co., after early attempts at restaurant ownership failed.
How did Jones influence NFL television broadcasting?
He was instrumental in securing Fox as the NFC's primary broadcaster, which countered efforts by other networks to reduce television rights fees.
Achievements
- Holdings: Dallas Cowboys
- Educated at North Little Rock High School
