April 5, 2025 – Denver, CO — Former U.S. Secretary of State and current Denver Broncos part-owner Condoleezza Rice has made headlines this week after expressing her desire for defensive lineman D.J. Jones to have a personal stake in her property portfolio — a surprising and bold gesture that speaks volumes about her trust in the veteran player’s leadership and character.
Rice, who is part of the Walton-Penner Family Ownership Group that purchased the Broncos in 2022, has been an active and visible presence in the organization. Her involvement in team culture, community outreach, and even player development has been widely praised. But her recent remarks about D.J. Jones took many by surprise, signaling a deeper level of respect and belief in his potential off the field.
“D.J. is more than a player — he’s a cornerstone of this team, on and off the field,” Rice said in a recent interview. “His work ethic, integrity, and commitment to community represent everything we want the Broncos to stand for. That’s why I believe he deserves a stake in something bigger — something that can last beyond football.”
While it’s not yet clear what form this proposed property stake would take — whether through real estate investments, ownership partnerships, or philanthropic ventures — sources close to the organization say Rice has been actively encouraging players to think long-term about wealth-building and legacy.
Jones, a respected veteran known for his physical dominance on the defensive line and leadership in the locker room, responded with humility.
“I never expected anything like this,” Jones said. “To have someone like Secretary Rice believe in me on that level — that’s an honor. It just motivates me to keep working hard and giving back.”
The story has sparked conversation across the NFL and beyond, with fans and analysts applauding Rice’s unique approach to player empowerment and wealth equity. It also highlights a growing movement among athletes and team owners to build partnerships that extend beyond the game.
As one sports business analyst put it:
“This could be a game-changer. When owners recognize the value of players as more than just athletes — as future business partners, community leaders, and legacy builders — it transforms the entire dynamic of professional sports.”
The details of the potential partnership are expected to unfold in the coming months, but one thing is clear: Rice sees D.J. Jones not just as a Bronco, but as a long-term leader with a future that reaches far beyond the gridiron.
