Cowboys owner Jerry Jones shares his retirement plans with a former president
Jerry Jones says he has no plans to retire, telling Fox News he discussed the subject with former US President Bill Clinton around his 84th birthday. The Dallas Cowboys owner, president and general manager joked that he and Clinton would not “let that old man in”, signalling he intends to remain involved with the team.
Jones bought the Cowboys in 1989 and has overseen three Super Bowl wins, but the team’s current defence is struggling despite extensive changes to players, coaches and schemes. Dallas allowed a league-high 30.1 points per game last season and is allowing 27.2 this season, ranking 27th; the Cowboys are 2-3, ahead of a Sunday night game against the 3-2 Green Bay Packers.
- Jerry Jones, 84, says he is not retiring soon.
- Dallas has won three Super Bowls under Jones.
- The Cowboys are 2-3 and rank 27th in scoring defence.
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The Dallas Cowboys are one of the best-known teams in American football, competing in the National Football League (NFL). Jerry Jones bought the team in 1989 and has since served as its owner and a leading decision-maker on football matters.
Jones’s role includes overseeing decisions about players and coaches, so his future can affect how the team is run. The Cowboys have won three Super Bowls during his ownership, but their defence has recently allowed many points, making the team’s performance a focus for supporters.
Both sides, in good faith
The strongest fair case each way — we don't pick a winner.
The case for
Jones’s continued involvement can be defended as a matter of ownership and earned trust: he built the Cowboys into a highly successful team and may believe his experience, commitment and authority remain valuable. A clear, hands-on leader can also provide continuity while the club works through poor defensive results.
The case against
The Cowboys’ recent defensive struggles and losing record give supporters reason to question whether the current leadership is delivering, especially since Jones holds several influential roles. They could argue that stepping back or sharing authority would bring fresh judgement and clearer accountability, while recognising his past achievements.