The Dallas Cowboys have consistently transcended the role of a typical football team; they represent a cultural icon and a testament to America’s enthusiasm for the game. This heritage is examined in Netflix’s latest docuseries “America’s Team: The Gambler and His Cowboys,” which investigates the drive, charm, and high-stakes choices that built a football dynasty.
Debuting on August 9, the series narrates Jerry Jones’ 1989 takeover of the faltering Cowboys and how his risk transformed the NFL. With Jones at the helm, the Cowboys not only secured three Super Bowl championships in the ’90s but also emerged as the most valuable sports franchise globally. The series merges never-before-seen footage with interviews from players, coaches, and supporters, depicting the Cowboys’ evolution from disappointments to victors. Helmed by the Emmy-winning group responsible for “Wild Wild Country,” the docuseries reveals how Jones redefined not just a team, but the entire sports landscape.
“America’s Team: The Gambler and His Cowboys” is equally a story of commerce as it is of athletics. Jones’ stewardship signified more than just triumph; it was about establishing a brand. He put his wealth on the line to acquire the franchise, ousted a legendary coach, and revolutionized marketing and revenue streams via audacious sponsorships and stadium advancements. The series presents insights from players such as Troy Aikman, Michael Irvin, Emmitt Smith, and Deion Sanders, with coaches Jimmy Johnson and Barry Switzer reflecting on the hurdles of leading the team amid intense rivalry and media scrutiny.
The docuseries also features viewpoints from prominent fans like former President George W. Bush and Nike co-founder Phil Knight, who elaborate on the Cowboys’ cultural importance. Historical footage and interviews deliver an engaging glimpse into “America’s Team,” epitomized by former quarterback Roger Staubach’s remark: “There are no traffic jams along the extra mile.”
With the franchise’s worth now exceeding $10 billion, “America’s Team: The Gambler and His Cowboys” illustrates how the groundwork for this achievement was laid in the ’90s. Furthermore, Netflix presents “America’s Sweethearts,” a docuseries focusing on the Dallas Cowboys cheerleaders, which has returned for a second season, spotlighting the legendary halftime entertainers.
