SPORTS

Dallas Cowboys are (again) the NFL's most valuable franchise

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Sources: 11

The Dallas Cowboys remain the NFL's most valuable franchise for the seventh consecutive year, with a valuation of $15.5 billion according to Sportico's 2026 rankings, a 21% increase from 2025. The team's financial dominance persists despite a second straight seven-win season and missing the playoffs. The Super Bowl champion Seattle Seahawks recorded the largest valuation jump at 46%, largely driven by their recent record-setting $9.612 billion sale. The average NFL team is now worth $9.34 billion, reflecting a 31% year-over-year increase across the league. The Cowboys' financial edge is reinforced by their exemption from the NFL's central merchandise revenue pool and a sponsorship portfolio worth approximately $300 million. The league's overall valuation surge is fueled by broadcast deals, franchise scarcity, and high investor demand.

Prepared by Emily Rhodes and reviewed by editorial team.

Timeline of Events

On 1989, Jerry Jones purchased the Dallas Cowboys for $140 million.
· On 1992, the Cowboys won the first of three Super Bowls in four seasons.
· On 1996, the Cowboys last reached the NFC Championship Game.
· On 2016, Dak Prescott became starting quarterback after Tony Romo's injury.
· On 2025, Sportico valued the Cowboys at approximately $12.8 billion.
· On 2026, the Cowboys missed playoffs with a second consecutive seven-win season.
· On 2026, Sportico ranked Cowboys first at $15.5 billion, up 21%.
· On 2026, the Seahawks sale closed at a record $9.612 billion.
· On 2026, league average franchise value rose 31% to $9.34 billion.
· Future expected: NFL values may continue rising with new media rights deals.

News Intelligence

Immediate US impact: Record NFL valuations signal booming sports investment market.
Long-term US impact: Team values may decouple further from on-field performance.
Affected groups: NFL owners, investors, Dallas-area businesses, and sports bankers.
Reader priority: Verify valuation methodologies and distinguish sale prices from rankings.