Table of Contents
Introduction
Stephen Jones, born on June 21, 1964, in Danville, Arkansas, is one of the most influential figures in the NFL, serving as the Chief Operating Officer and Executive Vice President of the Dallas Cowboys.
As the son of Cowboys owner Jerry Jones, Stephen has played a crucial role in managing salary caps, player recruitment, and the development of AT&T Stadium. His business and football operations expertise has significantly contributed to the team’s success. Stephen Jones’s Net Worth is $29 million; his wealth stems from his executive role, ownership stake in the Cowboys, real estate ventures, and business partnerships.
This article explores Stephen Jones’s net worth, career highlights, family life, and how he built his impressive fortune.
| Category | Details |
| Full Name | Stephen John Jones |
| Date of Birth | June 21, 1964 |
| Age | 60 years old |
| Birthplace | Danville, Arkansas |
| Education | University of Arkansas (Degree in Chemical Engineering) |
| Career Role | COO, EVP, and Director of Player Personnel for the Dallas Cowboys |
| Key Contributions | – Salary cap management – AT&T Stadium development – Player recruitment (Dak Prescott, Micah Parsons, etc.) – NFL Competition & New Stadium Committees |
| Stephen Jones’s Net Worth | $29 million |
| Sources of Income | – Salary from the Dallas Cowboys – Ownership stake in the team – Real estate ventures (The Star in Frisco) – Legends Hospitality partnership – Public speaking engagements |
| Family | Married to Karen Hickman 4 children (Jessica, Jordan, Caroline, John Stephen Jr.) |
| Challenges | – High expectations as Jerry Jones’ son – Criticism over Cowboys’ Super Bowl drought since 1996 |
| Legacy | Key architect in maintaining the Cowboys’ status as one of the most valuable sports franchises in the world |
Early Life and Education
Childhood and Family Background
Stephen John Jones was born in Danville, Arkansas, on June 21, 1964. He grew up in a family deeply rooted in football in Little Rock. His father, Jerry Jones, purchased the Dallas Cowboys in 1989 and transformed the team into a global brand. Stephen inherited his father’s passion for football and business, which would later define his career.
Education and Collegiate Football
Stephen attended Catholic High School for Boys in Little Rock, where he excelled academically and athletically. He later attended the University of Arkansas, following in his father’s footsteps as a Razorback. A four-year letterman as a linebacker and special teams player, Stephen started for the Razorbacks in the 1987 Orange Bowl.
In 1988, he graduated with a degree in chemical engineering and briefly worked in the oil and gas industry before joining his father at the Dallas Cowboys organization.
Career Highlights
Joining the Dallas Cowboys
Stephen was appointed one of three vice presidents when Jerry Jones purchased the Dallas Cowboys on February 25, 1989. Over time, he became Chief Operating Officer (COO), Executive Vice President (EVP), and Director of Player Personnel.
Key Contributions to the Franchise
Salary Cap Management
Stephen is widely regarded as one of the NFL’s top executives for managing salary caps and player contracts. His creativity allowed the Cowboys to maintain a talented core roster throughout the 1990s, contributing to their dominance during that decade.
Stadium Development
Stephen spearheaded the development of AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas—a state-of-the-art facility that opened in 2009. The stadium has hosted numerous high-profile events, including Super Bowl XLV and NCAA basketball tournaments.
Player Recruitment
As Director of Player Personnel, Stephen has been instrumental in drafting and signing key players such as Dak Prescott, Ezekiel Elliott, Dez Bryant, and Micah Parsons. His ability to identify talent has kept the Cowboys competitive over multiple seasons.
League Contributions
Stephen serves on several NFL committees, including the Competition Committee and New Stadium Committee. These roles highlight his influence beyond just team operations.
Stephen Jones’s Net Worth: How Stephen Built His Fortune
Estimated Net Worth
Stephen Jones’ estimated net worth is $29 million. His wealth stems from multiple sources tied to his work with the Dallas Cowboys and other ventures.
Sources of Income
1. Dallas Cowboys Salary
As COO and EVP of one of the most valuable sports franchises—valued at $9 billion—Stephen earns a substantial salary. While exact figures are not disclosed publicly, executives in similar roles across major sports organizations earn millions annually.
2. Ownership Stake
Stephen holds an ownership stake in the Dallas Cowboys alongside his siblings Charlotte Jones Anderson and Jerry Jones Jr., making him a co-owner of one of the most profitable teams in sports.
3. Real Estate Ventures
Stephen has been involved in real estate projects tied to Cowboys facilities like The Star in Frisco—a mixed-use development that serves as team headquarters while generating revenue from retail spaces and events.
4. Business Partnerships
He is on the board of directors for Legends Hospitality—a joint venture between the Dallas Cowboys and New York Yankees focused on stadium catering and event management.
5. Endorsements & Public Speaking
Though less prominent than players or coaches, Stephen occasionally participates in public speaking engagements related to sports management.
Family Life: Balancing Work and Home
Marriage and Children
Stephen has been married to Karen Hickman since the early 1990s. The couple met at the University of Arkansas and share four children: Jessica, Jordan, Caroline, and John Stephen Jr., who also played quarterback for the Arkansas Razorbacks.
Family Dynamics
The Jones family is known for its close-knit bond, both personally and professionally. Stephen works alongside his siblings Charlotte (Executive Vice President) and Jerry Jr. (Chief Sales and marketing Officer) within the Cowboys organization.
Challenges Along The Way
Despite his success, Stephen has faced challenges:
- Managing Expectations: As Jerry Jones’ son, Stephen had to prove himself beyond nepotism by delivering results consistently.
- Team Performance: While financially successful, critics often point out that the Cowboys haven’t won a Super Bowl since 1996—a gap that weighs heavily on team executives like Stephen.
Legacy: A Lasting Impact on Football
Stephen Jones’ influence extends beyond just managing one franchise; he has helped shape modern NFL operations through innovative strategies in salary cap management and stadium development. His work ensures that future generations will remember him as Jerry Jones’ son and as an architect of one of football’s greatest dynasties.
Conclusion
Stephen Jones’ journey from collegiate athlete to NFL executive showcases a blend of hard work, strategic thinking, and family values. With an estimated net worth of $29 million, he continues to play a pivotal role in maintaining the Dallas Cowboys’ status as one of sports’ most iconic brands.
Whether through groundbreaking stadium projects or assembling championship-caliber rosters, Stephen’s commitment to excellence ensures that his legacy will endure both on and off the field. As he balances family life with professional responsibilities, he exemplifies what it means to lead with vision while honoring tradition.
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FAQs
He is responsible for salary cap management, player recruitment, and business operations. He also played a key role in developing AT&T Stadium.
Yes, Stephen Jones is married to Karen Hickman, and they have four children.
Yes, Stephen Jones owns the Cowboys alongside his siblings, Charlotte Jones Anderson and Jerry Jones Jr.
He has helped shape the Dallas Cowboys into a global sports brand, played a key role in the NFL’s business development, and influenced modern salary cap strategies.
