Cowboys owner Jerry Jones says coach pay has no link to wins, sparking criticism over hiring approach

Dallas Cowboys owner Jerry Jones told radio station 105.3 The Fan that there is "zero correlation" between how much a coach is paid and a team's winning record, citing a sample of NFL teams over several years. He added that the data should be considered "in your hopper and smoke it."

Jones, who also serves as the team's general manager, has faced scrutiny for the Cowboys' lack of postseason success since their last NFC championship appearance in the 1995 season. Critics note that the franchise, despite its high profile and financial value, has missed the NFC title game for more than three decades and holds one of the league's weaker playoff records.

Analysts point to the team's hiring history as evidence of a reluctance to invest in top coaching talent. Recent coaching searches reportedly bypassed candidates such as Ben Johnson, Mike Vrabel, Liam Coen and Brian Flores, while interviewing less sought-after prospects. The pattern follows earlier decisions, including the departure of former head coach Jimmy Johnson, whose tenure coincided with multiple Super Bowl victories.

"There is no correlation (in the NFL) between how much you pay a coach or how many coaches you have as to winning," Jones said.

Observers argue that while coaching salaries are not publicly disclosed, successful coaches generally command higher compensation, and the Cowboys' approach may be limiting their competitive prospects.