Former NFL star Terrell Owens recently used his new podcast to critique Dallas Cowboys owner Jerry Jones. Owens likened the 83-year-old executive to Donald Trump, alleging that Jones prioritizes brand relevance and profit over winning championships.
The $17 billion gap since the 1996 Super Bowl
The financial trajectory of the Dallas Cowboys has remained an upward climb regardless of on-field success. As reported, Jerry Jones purchased the franchise in February 1989 for $140 million, quickly leading the team to victories in the 1993, 1994, and 1996 Super Bowls. However, the Dallas Cowboys have not returned to the championship game in nearly three decades.
Despite this championship drought, the Dallas Cowboys have become a global financial juggernaut. According to the report, Sportico values the franchise at approximately $15.5 billion , while Forbes places the valuation even higher at $17 billion. This massive disparity between trophy counts and bank balances forms the core of the current criticism against the team's leadership.
Why Terrell Owens compares Jerry Jones to Donald Trump
Terrell Owens, a Pro Football Hall of Fame receiver who played two seasons for the Dallas Cowboys, argues that Jerry Jones operates more like a promoter than a football executive. on his podcast, Owens claimed that Jones is "just like Donald Trump," suggesting that the owner will say whatever is necessary to maintain hope among the fanbase and keep merchandise sales high.
Owens further alleged that Jerry Jones exhibits signs of "narcissism," specifically pointing to the owner's refusal to relinquish power within the organizational chart . By "selling a fantasy" to the fans, Owens suggests that the Dallas Cowboys owner ensures the "bottom dollar" remains secure even when the team fails to deliver a championship.
A Week 1 loss to the New York Giants sparks new criticism
The timing of these comments follows a disappointing start to the 2026 NFL season, where the Dallas Cowboys suffered a Week 1 defeat against the New York Giants. While Jerry Jones admitted to being disappointed by the result, he maintained an optimistic public stance, stating that contending for a Super Bowl is "not a reach" for the current roster.
This optimism is exactly what Terrell Owens describes as a sales tactic. The friction between the owner's public confidence and the reality of the Dallas Cowboys' playoff struggles has created a cycle of hope and heartbreak for the supporters of "America's Team."
Will the 83-year-old Jerry Jones ever relinquish control?
A central point of contention is whether the 83-year-old Jerry Jones will ever step back from his dual role as owner and general manager . Terrell Owens explicitly stated that Jones needs to allow other professionals to step into leadership positions to improve the team's chances of winning.
However,the report leaves several questions unanswered regarding the future of the front office. It remains unclear if Jerry Jones has a formal succession plan or if he views his total control as the primary reason for the Dallas Cowboys' immense valuation. Furthermore, the source does not provide a response from Jerry Jones or the Dallas Cowboys organization regarding the specific accusations of narcissism.
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