The Dallas Cowboys have become the first sports team in history to be valued at over $10 billion, according to Sportico’s annual rankings of NFL team valuations. The Cowboys’ estimated worth of $10.32 billion places them significantly ahead of their competitors, cementing their position as the most valuable sports franchise globally.
Sportico’s latest report, released on Tuesday, highlights the Cowboys’ commanding lead over other NFL teams. The Los Angeles Rams hold the second spot with a valuation of $7.79 billion, followed by the New York Giants at $7.65 billion. The New England Patriots and the San Francisco 49ers round out the top five, valued at $7.31 billion and $6.86 billion, respectively.
A Clear Lead in NFL Valuations
The Dallas Cowboys’ valuation outpaces the second-place Los Angeles Rams by a remarkable $2.53 billion. The New York Jets and Miami Dolphins are ranked sixth and seventh, valued at $6.8 billion and $6.76 billion, respectively. Completing the top ten are the Philadelphia Eagles at $6.75 billion, the Las Vegas Raiders at $6.7 billion, and the Washington Commanders at $6.3 billion.
The recent valuations underscore the financial prowess of the Cowboys, which has been a consistent trend. In September of the previous year, Forbes estimated the Cowboys’ value at $9 billion. By February, Sportico’s earlier estimate had placed the team’s value at $9.2 billion, with the Golden State Warriors being the closest sports franchise, valued at $8.28 billion.
The Jerry Jones Impact
Under the ownership of Jerry Jones, the Cowboys have maintained their status as the world’s most valuable sports team. Jones acquired the team in 1989 and has since transformed it into a financial juggernaut, leveraging lucrative sponsorship deals, a state-of-the-art stadium, and a strong brand presence. This impressive valuation comes despite the team’s underwhelming performance on the field.
The Cowboys have not advanced past the NFC championship game since their Super Bowl victory in the 1995 season. Over their last 13 playoff appearances, the team has secured only five wins against 13 losses. Their most recent playoff disappointment was a 48-32 loss to the Green Bay Packers in the 2023 wild-card round.
Financial Success Amidst On-Field Struggles
The Cowboys’ ability to achieve such high valuations despite their lack of recent success in the playoffs speaks volumes about their off-field strategies and marketability. Their home games continue to draw large crowds, and their merchandising and branding efforts have consistently placed them at the top of revenue charts.
Sportico’s report also emphasizes the disparity between the Cowboys and other top-valued teams. The New York Giants, another NFC East rival, hold a significant valuation at $7.65 billion but still fall short of the Cowboys’ staggering $10.32 billion. The financial gap underscores the Cowboys’ unique position in the sports world, driven by their robust commercial operations and extensive fan base.