Although the NFL has been around since the 1920s, it was not until 2002 that Houston Texans made an entry into the national league. It was under Janice McNair’s late husband, Robert McNair, leadership that saw the Texans become this league’s 32nd team. Until Robert’s sudden demise in 2018, he and his wife Janice co-owned the NFL franchise.

However, a change in ownership had to be made as Robert’s legacy was passed upon his wife, who took over the Texans in 2018. After a long-drawn battle with skin cancer in 1994, Robert went through multiple treatment procedures. From chronic lymphocytic leukemia to other cancers, he had everything going throughout his tenure in charge of the Texans. But he couldn’t see it through as his wife eventually took upon the responsibility of leading the Texans after his death.

How did Janice McNair take over Houston Texans?

As Robert passed away, his wife was unanimously declared the principal owner of the Texans, thereby taking upon the “senior chair.” While she took over the franchise, her son, Cal McNair, was given the responsibility of CEO and handling the day-to-day activities. With a net worth of $6.2 billion, Janice inherited over 80% of the stake her husband owned in the NFL franchise.

Well, her journey to become the Texans owner wouldn’t have been possible if Bob had not sold his power generator company, Cogen Technologies, to Enron. After receiving a lump sum amount of $1.5 billion in 2019, they decided to purchase the Texans by paying $700 million from that payload.

She was one of the ten female NFL franchise owners until her son Cal became the principal owner in 2024. Moving away from the wealth they gained from leading an NFL club, the McNair Foundation is renowned for its work as a philanthropist. They have donated a whopping $2.6 million in financial aid up to this present day.

Their biggest donation was made towards Baylor College of Medicine, which was recorded at $100 million to bring on board top scientists and physicians. Well, this didn’t stop the Houston Texans franchise from growing, as it remains one of the richest clubs in the NFL, considering they are the youngest among all.

How much are Houston Texans valued in 2024?

Having generated a revenue of $663 million with an operating income of $164 million, the Texans are currently valued at $6.1 billion. Their brand value stands at $393 million, while the valuation of the NRG Stadium is recorded at $797 million. They are the 12th most valued NFL franchise, which in itself is a huge achievement considering they started in 2002.

Although Janice is not the principal owner anymore, her son continues to carry on the family legacy at the helm of Houston.

When Cal took over from her mother, he shared, “I first want to acknowledge the incredible work my mom has done over the last five years since taking over. She has been an inspirational leader for our family, our team and our community. I can’t thank her enough for the foundation she has helped build and her countless contributions both on and off the field.”

With Cal McNair taking over, Janice still serves as the senior chair. However, the future of this franchise will be headed by the youngest of their generation as Janice hands over the reigns at 88.