How did Jerry Jones get so Rich? [Net Worth 2023]

Jerry Jones, the owner of the Dallas Cowboys, amassed fortune through a variety of business activities, the majority of which were in the oil and gas industry. Here is a summary of his route to wealth:

1. Oil and Gas Business: Jones began his career in the oil and gas industry in the early 1970s by creating his own exploration company, Jones Oil and Land Lease. He concentrated on drilling for oil on land he had purchased. This endeavor was a success, and it contributed significantly to his initial wealth acquisition.
2. Wildcatter Mentality: Jones was well-known for his “wildcatter mentality,” which referred to his willingness to take calculated risks in the oil industry. This approach entailed drilling in unproven or unconventional places in the expectation of locating significant oil reserves. While many wildcatters failed, Jones’ initiatives were more often than not profitable, leading to his financial success.
3. Acquisitions and Investments: Jones grew his fortune through acquisitions and investments in a variety of industries. He paid $140 million for the Dallas Cowboys in 1989, which was considered a large investment at the time. The Cowboys become one of the most valued sports clubs in the world during his ownership.
4. Marketing and Branding: Jones was also noted for the Cowboys’ inventive marketing and branding techniques. He was key in securing lucrative media and sponsorship deals, which increased the team’s revenue and his personal wealth.
5. Real Estate: In addition to his involvement in the energy business and sports, Jones has made real estate investments. His commercial acumen and ability to make strategic decisions aided in the accumulation of his riches over time.

Jerry Jones’ success may be ascribed to a number of elements, including his entrepreneurial spirit, willingness to take risks, intelligent business decisions, and ability to transform the Dallas Cowboys into a global brand.

Famous quotes of Jerry Jones

Jerry Jones is known for his fiery personality and has delivered several famous remarks over the years. Here are a handful of his well-known quotes:

1. “I think the world of football could be a better place. I think it could be a place where the people who love it could do more of what they love, which is to see a better game.”
2. “I am the ultimate optimist. I’m the ultimate believer in fairytale endings.”
3. “There’s no question we need new stadiums, and there’s no question we need to get them financed.”
4. “I’ve always been able to use leverage to get what I want. It’s a little bit like being a batter in baseball who just waits for his pitch.”
5. “I’d do anything known to man to get a Super Bowl.”
6. “A lot of people have different ways of doing things and philosophies. I believe in controlling the people who work for me.”
7. “I am very convicted about what I’m doing. I believe in spending money.”
8. “You don’t always get what you ask for, but you never get what you don’t ask for unless it’s contagious.”
9. “I’ve always known I wanted to be successful, but I didn’t know what it would take to get here. I realized pretty early on that it takes outworking the next guy and being willing to make sacrifices.”
10. “To me, football is about competition, and there’s no substitute for winning. It doesn’t matter how you get there as long as you get there.”

Lesser-Known facts about Jerry Jones

Certainly, here are some lesser-known Jerry Jones facts:

1. College Football Career: Jerry Jones was an offensive lineman at the University of Arkansas under famed coach Frank Broyles. He was a member of the 1964 national championship team as a co-captain.
2. Coached collegiate Football: Jones temporarily coached the offensive line at the University of Arkansas under head coach Frank Broyles after his collegiate football career. This early coaching experience provided him with insights into the world of football that extended beyond playing.
3. Business activities before to the Cowboys: Jerry Jones was involved in a variety of business activities before to purchasing the Dallas Cowboys. In the late 1960s, he was a part-owner of the San Diego Chargers and attempted to buy the NFL’s San Diego Chargers in 1967, but the deal fell through.
4. Oil Exploration Background: Jones’ success in the oil and gas industry contributed greatly to his fortune. He graduated from the University of Arkansas with a degree in petroleum engineering and worked in the sector before launching his own oil exploration company.
5. Relationship with Jimmy Johnson: Jones is well-known for his tumultuous relationship with former Cowboys coach Jimmy Johnson. While they had great success together, winning two Super Bowls in the 1990s, personal conflicts caused Johnson to leave the club.
6. Family Ties: Jerry Jones hails from a family with a grocery shop background. Jones’ father had a grocery shop in North Little Rock, Arkansas, and his early exposure to commerce undoubtedly affected his enterprising drive.
7. Induction into the Pro Football Hall of Fame: In 2017, Jerry Jones was inducted as a contributor into the Pro Football Hall of Fame. This honor was made possible by his impact on the league and his participation in the development of the Dallas Cowboys brand.
8. Stadium Owner and Operator: In addition to owning the Cowboys, Jones is also known for owning and operating AT&T Stadium, also known as “Jerry World.” The stadium is well-known for its contemporary architecture and superb facilities.
9. Involved in Stadium Architecture: Jones was personally involved in the design and architecture of AT&T Stadium, emphasizing the significance of building a visually appealing and technologically advanced arena for fans.
10. Investments Outside of Football: Jones has made investments in industries other than football and oil, such as entertainment, real estate, and even eSports. He invested heavily in the esports organization compLexity Gaming.

These lesser-known facts shed light on Jerry Jones’ background, interests, and influence outside of his role as Dallas Cowboys owner.

What companies does Jerry Jones own?

Jerry Jones is most known for owning the Dallas Cowboys, a professional American football team. He has also participated in a number of other commercial initiatives and investments. Here are a few of the well-known firms and investments affiliated with Jerry Jones:

1. Dallas Cowboys: Jerry Jones owns the Dallas Cowboys, one of the world’s most valuable sports clubs. He bought the team in 1989 and has been instrumental in its operations, branding, and success ever then.
2. AT&T Stadium: Jones was instrumental in the building and ownership of AT&T Stadium, the Dallas Cowboys’ home stadium. The stadium, dubbed “Jerry World,” is notable for its futuristic architecture and cutting-edge technology.
3. Blue Star Land: Jerry Jones’ company Blue Star Land is interested in real estate development. This firm has worked on a variety of real estate projects, including commercial, residential, and mixed-use developments.
4. CompLexity Gaming: Jerry Jones and his family have invested in compLexity Gaming, an esports business. This investment demonstrates his interest in industries other than traditional sports.
5. Oil and Gas Ventures: Prior to his forays into sports and entertainment, Jones amassed his fortune in the oil and gas industry through exploration and drilling.

What is Jerry Jones net worth?

Jerry Jones’s net worth was estimated to be around $13 billion.

What philanthropic initiatives Jerry Jones is involved in?

Jerry Jones and his family have been active in a number of charitable endeavors over the years. Here are a few of Jerry Jones’ humanitarian initiatives:

1. Gene and Jerry Jones Family Foundation: Founded by Jerry Jones and his wife Gene, the Gene and Jerry Jones Family Foundation is dedicated to making a positive difference in the lives of those in need. The foundation provides funding for a variety of objectives, including education, health, and community development.
2. Salvation Army Partnership: Jerry Jones and the Dallas Cowboys have a long history of working with the Salvation Army. The Cowboys host the traditional Thanksgiving Day game every year, and Jerry Jones is well-known for his engagement in the Red Kettle Campaign, a humanitarian effort to generate funds for the Salvation Army’s projects.
3. United Way: The Jones family has also been associated with the United Way, a nonprofit organization that works to improve community education, financial stability, and health. They have contributed to a number of United Way initiatives and campaigns.
4. Children’s Hospitals and Healthcare: Jerry Jones has expressed his support for pediatric hospitals and healthcare groups. The Dallas Cowboys have been participating in programs to improve the lives of youngsters who are undergoing medical treatment.
5. Community Development: The Jones family is dedicated to community development initiatives. Their charitable efforts have tried to enhance local communities through investments in infrastructure, education, and social services.
6. Youth and Education: The Jones family has funded youth development and education programs, with the goal of providing opportunity for young people to thrive and succeed.
7. Natural Disaster Relief: During natural disasters, the Jones family and the Dallas Cowboys have stepped in to help afflicted areas.

What are some real stories of Jerry Jones leadership?

Jerry Jones’ leadership has been lauded and criticized over the years. Here are a few examples of real-life stories that demonstrate features of his leadership style:

1. Hiring Jimmy Johnson: In 1989, one of Jerry Jones’s defining decisions was to appoint Jimmy Johnson as the head coach of the Dallas Cowboys. This was a dramatic break from the team’s previous coaching staff and paved the way for a prosperous era. The Cowboys won two Super Bowls under Johnson’s leadership (XXVII and XXVIII). While their working relationship eventually worsened, leading to Johnson’s resignation, Jones’ decision to bring in Johnson demonstrated his willingness to make risky decisions for the team’s sake.
2. Firing Tom Landry: When Jerry Jones bought the Dallas Cowboys in 1989, he fired Tom Landry, the team’s renowned head coach who had been with the organization since its establishment in 1960. This decision drew criticism from fans and the media, as Landry was a well-liked figure in the NFL. Jones’ handling of the matter, as well as the manner in which he conveyed the move, garnered criticism for a lack of empathy and respect for the team’s heritage.
3. Strong Branding: Jerry Jones is well-known for his great business acumen and ability to establish and sustain a strong brand. He has transformed the Dallas Cowboys into a global sports organization worth billions of dollars. The development of AT&T Stadium (Jerry World) demonstrates his dedication to giving spectators with an unforgettable experience. His marketing, branding, and commercial negotiation skills have been important in the Cowboys’ financial success.
4. Striving for Excellence: Jones’s desire for excellence, as well as his willingness to devote resources in order to succeed, are obvious in his efforts to win Super Bowls. He famously said, “I’d do anything known to man to get a Super Bowl.” While many respect his determination, it has also caused tensions and conflicts because his involvement in club management decisions has occasionally clashed with the traditional duties of coaches and general managers.
5. Adapting to Challenges: Jones’s leadership is distinguished by his adaptability and desire to change. To keep the Cowboys at the vanguard of the sports industry, he has embraced new technologies, innovative stadium architecture, and changes in the business landscape. The Cowboys’ agility has enabled them to preserve their relevance and financial success.

What can you learn from Jerry Jones?

Jerry Jones teaches several great lessons on leadership, business, and achieving your goals. Here are a few crucial points to remember:

1. Bold Decision-Making: Jerry Jones is well-known for his propensity to make daring and often contentious decisions. While not all of his judgments have been widely embraced, his willingness to take measured risks and make difficult decisions has contributed significantly to his success. Making decisions in the midst of uncertainty can be a significant talent in leadership and entrepreneurship.
2. adaptation and Innovation: Jones’ approach to business and sports has been defined by adaptation and innovation. He welcomed new technologies, modern stadium architecture, and industry trends. Staying open to new ideas and adapting to changing conditions might help you stay competitive and relevant.
3. Dedication to greatness: Jones’ dedication to greatness is evident in his pursuit of Super Bowl triumphs and investment in the development of a top-tier sports club. Striving for excellence in all aspects of your life can lead to long-term success and recognition.
4. Strong Branding and Marketing: Jones’ ability to create and sustain a strong brand for the Dallas Cowboys demonstrates the value of effective branding and marketing. Creating a distinct and appealing identity for your company or personal brand can help you stand out in crowded markets.
5. Entrepreneurial Spirit: Jerry Jones’ early success in the oil and gas business exemplifies the importance of an entrepreneurial mindset. Identifying possibilities, taking measured risks, and being proactive in pursuing your goals are all important parts of business that you can learn from his experience.
6. Balancing Tradition and Innovation: While Jones is known for proposing innovative techniques, he also understands the value of respecting tradition. Striking a balance between preserving a team’s legacy and pushing for advancement is an important lesson in change management.
7. Ownership and Responsibility: Jones’ ownership of the Cowboys comes with both advantages and disadvantages. Learning to accept responsibility for your decisions, triumphs, and failures is a key component of leadership. Recognizing accountability can lead to personal and professional development.
8. Community Engagement: Jerry Jones’ participation in philanthropy and community projects emphasizes the value of giving back to the community. Engaging in meaningful philanthropic initiatives can have a beneficial influence and provide a sense of purpose that extends beyond personal achievement.

What are some controversies Jerry Jones is involved in?  

Jerry Jones, like many other important figures, has been embroiled in a number of scandals over his career. Here are a few significant controversies in which Jerry Jones has been involved:

1. Firing Tom Landry: One of the most contentious issues in Jones’ early years as Dallas Cowboys owner was his decision to remove famous head coach Tom Landry in 1989. Fans and the media were outraged by the decision, believing that Landry, who had been with the organization since its beginning, deserved more respect and attention.
2. Jimmy Johnson Departure: Despite great success, Jerry Jones’ relationship with head coach Jimmy Johnson deteriorated. Johnson left the Cowboys after winning back-to-back Super Bowls, and their public disagreements and fights added to the commotion surrounding his departure.
3. Salary Cap Violations: The Dallas Cowboys were fined by the NFL in the 1990s for salary cap violations related to player contracts. This controversy resulted in financial fines and the team losing draft picks. While Jones denied any direct involvement in the offenses, the issue clouded the team’s success at the time.
4. Dispute with NFL Commissioner: Jerry Jones has had disagreements with NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell. One noteworthy example was his objection to Commissioner Goodell’s contract extension discussions, which erupted into a public battle between the two.
5. National Anthem demonstrations: Jerry Jones’ position on players’ national anthem demonstrations has sparked debate. In 2017, he indicated that Cowboys players will be obliged to stand for the national anthem or be benched, triggering disputes regarding the right of players to protest and free expression.
6. COVID-19 epidemic Response: Jones received notoriety for his response to the COVID-19 epidemic. He was among the owners who advocated for fans to attend games in the 2020 season, despite health and safety concerns. Some criticized this position, claiming that it put financial interests before public health.
7. Involvement in club Operations: Jones’s hands-on involvement in club operations and management choices has sparked controversy about the proper duties of NFL franchise owners, coaches, and general managers. Some detractors say that his power undermines the authority of other team members.
8. Player punishment: Some have questioned Jones’ handling of player punishment and legal concerns, claiming that he favors team success over addressing players’ off-field behavior. Controversies regarding player misconduct and penalty decisions have spurred discussions about accountability.