Jerry Jones Steps Down as Cowboys GM, Coach Brian Schottenheimer Confirms
August 18, 2025 โ Arlington, TX
In a stunning development that marks the end of an era, Dallas Cowboys owner Jerry Jones is officially stepping down from his long-held role as General Manager of the franchise. The announcement was confirmed Monday morning by Cowboys head coach Brian Schottenheimer during a press conference at The Star in Frisco.
Schottenheimer, addressing the media ahead of the Cowboysโ third preseason game, stated:
> โJerry has decided it’s time to step back from the GM role and focus solely on ownership responsibilities. This is a major moment for the organization, and I know I speak for the entire team and staff when I say we thank him for everything heโs done in shaping this franchise.โ
Jones, 83, has served as both owner and general manager since purchasing the Cowboys in 1989. Under his leadership, Dallas has remained one of the NFLโs most valuable and visible franchises, winning three Super Bowl titles in the 1990s and consistently ranking among the leagueโs highest in revenue and popularity.
However, Jones has also drawn criticism over the years for his hands-on management style, frequent coaching changes, and lack of recent postseason success. The Cowboys have not advanced past the NFC Championship Game since the 1995 season, leading many to call for a restructuring of the front office.
No official statement has yet been released from Jones himself, but sources close to the organization say a public announcement is expected later today.
A New Era in Dallas?
Schottenheimer did not confirm who would be replacing Jones as GM, but speculation is already swirling around several names within the Cowboys’ front office, including Executive Vice President Stephen Jones, Jerryโs son, who has long been seen as the heir apparent.
โThereโs a lot of trust in our football operations team,โ Schottenheimer said. โWhoever steps in will have a great foundation to work from.โ
Jonesโ departure as general manager is a seismic shift for the Cowboys and the NFL at large. His tenure redefined the role of an NFL owner, blurring the lines between executive leadership, marketing strategy, and football operations. He was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2017 for his impact on the league.
Fan and League Reaction
Reactions across the league and from fans were immediate and emotional. Social media erupted with tributes, debates, and speculation about what the future holds for “Americaโs Team.”
NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell released a brief statement saying, โJerry Jones has been a visionary and a passionate leader in our league. His contributions as a GM will be remembered for generations.โ
As the Cowboys prepare for a season full of high expectations, the shadow of Jonesโ legacy will continue to loom large โ but for the first time in decades, someone else will be calling the shots from the GMโs chair.