The NFL’s most powerful thrones are set to change hands! From the iconic Dallas Cowboys to the legendary New England Patriots, and even the Commissioner’s office – who’s next in line? Get a sneak peek into the high-stakes succession plans that will redefine the league. Will the future mirror the past, or usher in a new era?
The National Football League stands at a pivotal juncture, with significant leadership transitions looming for three of its most influential positions: the ownership of the Dallas Cowboys, the New England Patriots, and the role of NFL Commissioner. As discussed in the recent “America’s Team” series, a poignant reminder surfaced regarding Jerry Jones’s eventual departure from the Cowboys, signaling a decade of potential change at the league’s most powerful tables.
Jerry Jones’s tenure as the Dallas Cowboys owner has been nothing short of transformative, marked by his innovative approach to marketing, broadcasting deals, and facility expansion, solidifying the Cowboys as the world’s most valuable sports franchise. His vision has left an indelible mark on the league, and the succession plan points to his family—wife Eugenia, sons Stephen and Jerry Jr., and daughter Charlotte—continuing the legacy, a dynamic that will undoubtedly shape the future of the NFL.
Stephen Jones, Jerry’s eldest son and co-owner, has already played a crucial behind-the-scenes role, often tempering his father’s more impulsive decisions and contributing significantly to player personnel. While Stephen is widely seen as the heir apparent to lead the Dallas Cowboys, the challenge lies not in his capability but in forging his own distinct leadership identity without attempting to replicate the singular force that is Jerry Jones.
Similarly, Robert Kraft, the revered owner of the New England Patriots, has been a central pillar in the NFL’s economic and operational landscape for decades. His strategic acumen has not only built a dynasty on the field but also pioneered off-field revenue generation through ventures like Patriot Place. His son, Jonathan Kraft, is poised to take the reins, with a confirmed succession plan in place that ensures the Patriots remain a family-led enterprise.
Jonathan Kraft, while maintaining a lower public profile than Stephen Jones, has been deeply involved in the New England Patriots’ operations and the broader Kraft Group, offering advisory support on the football side. The transition period, especially following the departure of Bill Belichick, could re-energize Robert Kraft, potentially extending his active involvement, leaving the exact timeline for Jonathan’s full leadership role somewhat uncertain.
The question of Roger Goodell’s succession as NFL Commissioner also generates considerable discussion. Despite earlier speculation about his retirement by 2027, recent developments suggest Goodell is likely to extend his tenure. The league’s booming financial success, driven by gambling, media rights, and global expansion, coupled with the absence of a clear, strong successor, appears to favor his continued leadership.
Key factors such as upcoming collective bargaining agreements, negotiations for an 18th regular-season game, and potential opt-outs in broadcast rights deals after 2028 further underscore the need for leadership continuity. The departure of Brian Rolapp, once a strong candidate to replace Goodell, has solidified the perception within the league that Roger Goodell will remain at the helm for the foreseeable future, ensuring stability during crucial negotiations.
