In at least one respect, the Dallas Cowboys aren't "America's Team" any longer.
Jerry Jones, the Arkansas millionaire who bought control of the NFL club more than a year ago, has quietly purchased a 12-percent minority partnership interest that had been held by the federal government, according to the Fort Worth Star-Telegram.The sale, for more than $5 million, was handled so discreetly at the end of last year that Federal Deposit Insurance Corp. Chairman William Seidman did not even know of it until Friday.
The Cowboys were 1-15 last year under Jimmy Johnson, giving them the worst record in pro football.
"I assume now that they've got the government of their back, they'll do better," Seidman said.
Cowboys spokesman Greg Aiello had not heard of the sale, he said Friday.
Jones was not available for comment.
The purchase boosts Jones' share in the Cowboys to 68 percent.
Dallas businessman Ed Smith Jr. owns 27 percent of the club and Exeter Investment Co. of Lufkin holds 5 percent.
The 12-percent share fell to the FDIC after the collapse of some Texas financial institutions.