The Washington Redskins, one of the most iconic teams in the National Football League (NFL), has a rich history that spans over eight decades. From its humble beginnings to its current status as a beloved franchise, the team has undergone numerous transformations, including changes in ownership. One of the most significant events in the team’s history was when Jack Kent Cooke, a Canadian-American businessman, purchased the Redskins in 1985. In this article, we will delve into the story of Jack Kent Cooke’s acquisition of the Redskins and explore the impact it had on the team.
The Early Years of the Redskins
Before we dive into the story of Jack Kent Cooke’s purchase of the Redskins, it’s essential to understand the team’s history. The Redskins were founded in 1932 by George Preston Marshall, a successful businessman and entrepreneur. Marshall, who was also the team’s first owner, played a crucial role in shaping the franchise’s early years. Under his leadership, the team won two NFL championships, in 1937 and 1942.
However, Marshall’s ownership was not without controversy. He was known for his racist views, which led to the team being the last in the NFL to integrate African American players. It wasn’t until 1962, when the team was forced to integrate by the federal government, that the Redskins finally signed their first African American player, Bobby Mitchell.
The Sale of the Redskins
In 1969, George Preston Marshall passed away, leaving the team to his son, George Preston Marshall Jr. However, due to financial difficulties, Marshall Jr. was forced to sell the team in 1974 to a group of investors led by Edward Bennett Williams, a successful lawyer and businessman. Williams’ ownership marked a new era for the Redskins, as he brought in a new management team and invested heavily in the team’s infrastructure.
Despite the team’s success on the field, Williams’ ownership was not without its challenges. The team struggled financially, and Williams was forced to sell the team in 1985 to Jack Kent Cooke, a Canadian-American businessman.
Jack Kent Cooke: The New Owner
Jack Kent Cooke was a successful businessman and entrepreneur who made his fortune in the media and real estate industries. Born in 1912 in Hamilton, Ontario, Canada, Cooke began his career in the media industry, working as a journalist and later as a radio announcer. He eventually moved to the United States, where he built a media empire, owning several radio and television stations.
Cooke’s entry into the sports world began in the 1960s, when he purchased the Los Angeles Lakers, a professional basketball team. He later sold the team and turned his attention to football, purchasing the Washington Redskins in 1985.
The Purchase of the Redskins
Cooke’s purchase of the Redskins was a significant event in the team’s history. The sale, which was finalized on July 9, 1985, was worth approximately $85 million, a staggering amount at the time. Cooke’s ownership marked a new era for the Redskins, as he brought in a new management team and invested heavily in the team’s infrastructure.
Under Cooke’s ownership, the Redskins experienced a period of unprecedented success. The team won three Super Bowl championships, in 1987, 1991, and 1992, and became one of the most dominant teams in the NFL.
The Impact of Cooke’s Ownership
Cooke’s ownership had a profound impact on the Redskins. He brought in a new management team, led by General Manager Bobby Beathard, who was responsible for building the team’s roster. Cooke also invested heavily in the team’s infrastructure, including the construction of a new stadium, RFK Stadium.
Cooke’s ownership also marked a significant shift in the team’s culture. He was known for his hands-on approach, often attending team meetings and practices. He was also a strong supporter of the team’s players, often going out of his way to support them both on and off the field.
Cooke’s Legacy
Jack Kent Cooke’s legacy is still felt today. He is remembered as one of the greatest owners in Redskins history, and his impact on the team is still celebrated by fans. Cooke’s ownership marked a period of unprecedented success for the Redskins, and his commitment to the team’s players and fans is still revered.
Cooke passed away in 1997, but his legacy lives on. The Redskins continue to be one of the most beloved teams in the NFL, and Cooke’s impact on the team’s history is still felt today.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Jack Kent Cooke’s purchase of the Redskins in 1985 marked a significant event in the team’s history. His ownership brought a new era of success to the team, and his commitment to the team’s players and fans is still remembered today. As we look back on the team’s history, it’s clear that Cooke’s ownership was a turning point for the Redskins, and his legacy continues to be felt today.
| Year | Event |
|---|---|
| 1932 | The Washington Redskins were founded by George Preston Marshall. |
| 1969 | George Preston Marshall passed away, leaving the team to his son, George Preston Marshall Jr. |
| 1974 | George Preston Marshall Jr. sold the team to a group of investors led by Edward Bennett Williams. |
| 1985 | Edward Bennett Williams sold the team to Jack Kent Cooke. |
The story of Jack Kent Cooke’s purchase of the Redskins is a fascinating one, filled with twists and turns. From the team’s humble beginnings to its current status as a beloved franchise, the Redskins have undergone numerous transformations, including changes in ownership. Cooke’s ownership marked a significant event in the team’s history, and his legacy continues to be felt today.
When did Jack Kent Cooke buy the Redskins?
Jack Kent Cooke bought the Washington Redskins in 1985. He purchased the team from the estate of the late Edward Bennett Williams for approximately $85 million. Cooke’s acquisition of the Redskins marked a significant turning point in the team’s history, as he brought a new level of enthusiasm and investment to the franchise.
Under Cooke’s ownership, the Redskins experienced a period of success, including three Super Bowl appearances and two championships. Cooke’s leadership and commitment to the team helped to establish the Redskins as one of the premier franchises in the NFL. His legacy continues to be felt in the team’s history and tradition.
Who was Jack Kent Cooke?
Jack Kent Cooke was a Canadian-American businessman and sports entrepreneur. He was born in 1912 in Hamilton, Ontario, Canada, and began his career in the newspaper industry before moving into sports ownership. Cooke owned several sports teams, including the Los Angeles Lakers and the Washington Redskins, and was known for his innovative approach to sports marketing and management.
Cooke was also a successful businessman and investor, with interests in real estate, broadcasting, and other industries. He was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1997 and the Canadian Business Hall of Fame in 1985. Cooke’s legacy as a sports owner and entrepreneur continues to be celebrated, and his impact on the world of sports remains significant.
What was the impact of Jack Kent Cooke’s ownership on the Redskins?
Jack Kent Cooke’s ownership of the Redskins had a significant impact on the team’s success and popularity. During his tenure, the team won two Super Bowl championships and experienced a period of sustained success. Cooke’s investment in the team and his commitment to hiring top talent helped to establish the Redskins as one of the premier franchises in the NFL.
Cooke’s ownership also helped to increase the team’s visibility and popularity, both locally and nationally. He was a charismatic and outspoken owner who was not afraid to speak his mind and promote his team. Cooke’s legacy continues to be felt in the team’s history and tradition, and his impact on the Redskins remains significant to this day.
How did Jack Kent Cooke change the Redskins’ stadium situation?
Jack Kent Cooke played a significant role in changing the Redskins’ stadium situation. During his ownership, Cooke advocated for a new stadium to replace the team’s aging home, RFK Stadium. In 1997, Cooke broke ground on a new stadium, which would eventually become known as FedExField.
The new stadium was a state-of-the-art facility that provided a much-needed upgrade for the team and its fans. Cooke’s investment in the stadium helped to establish the Redskins as one of the premier franchises in the NFL, and the team’s new home became a source of pride for the organization and its fans.
What was Jack Kent Cooke’s relationship like with Redskins fans?
Jack Kent Cooke had a complex and often tumultuous relationship with Redskins fans. On the one hand, Cooke was a charismatic and outspoken owner who was not afraid to speak his mind and promote his team. He was known for his enthusiasm and passion for the Redskins, and many fans appreciated his commitment to the team.
On the other hand, Cooke was also known for his authoritarian style and his willingness to make unpopular decisions. He was involved in several high-profile disputes with players and coaches, and some fans criticized his handling of the team. Despite these controversies, Cooke remained a popular figure among many Redskins fans, who appreciated his dedication to the team and his role in the team’s success.
How did Jack Kent Cooke’s ownership of the Redskins impact the NFL?
Jack Kent Cooke’s ownership of the Redskins had a significant impact on the NFL. Cooke was a pioneer in the field of sports marketing and management, and his innovative approach to promoting the Redskins helped to establish the team as one of the premier franchises in the league.
Cooke’s ownership also helped to increase the NFL’s visibility and popularity, both locally and nationally. He was a charismatic and outspoken owner who was not afraid to speak his mind and promote his team, and his leadership helped to establish the Redskins as one of the most recognizable and beloved franchises in the NFL.
What is Jack Kent Cooke’s lasting legacy in the NFL?
Jack Kent Cooke’s lasting legacy in the NFL is that of a pioneering sports owner and entrepreneur. He was a true innovator in the field of sports marketing and management, and his approach to promoting the Redskins helped to establish the team as one of the premier franchises in the league.
Cooke’s legacy continues to be felt in the NFL today, as his influence can be seen in the way that teams market and promote themselves. He was a true leader and visionary, and his impact on the world of sports remains significant. Cooke’s induction into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1997 is a testament to his enduring legacy in the NFL.