Who is John Mara? New York Giants owner diagnosed with cancer; all about his family, career, net worth and 100-year-old connection with the American football team

John Mara, the owner of the New York Giants, announced on Monday (September 29, 2025) that he was recently diagnosed with cancer. In a statement released by the team, it was revealed that he has been following a treatment plan recommended by doctors. He did not disclose what form of cancer he has and asked for privacy on the matter.

“I’m feeling strong and optimistic, and I’m committed to seeing this through to a positive outcome,” Mara said, as quoted by news agency AP. “I’m fortunate to be surrounded by incredible support — personally, professionally and medically,” he stated.

Mara, 70, further stated that he expects to remain active with the team as president and CEO while being treated. He was at the Giants’ practice facility in East Rutherford, New Jersey, last week when coach Brian Daboll formally named rookie Jaxson Dart the starting quarterback. The Mara family has owned the storied NFL franchise since its founding in 1925.

John Mara: Early life, professional career, and net worth

Born on December 1, 1954, in New York City to Wellington Mara and Ann Mara (née Mumm), John Mara is the eldest son in a family. He is deeply entrenched in professional football. John grew up engrossed in the culture and business of the NFL.

According to Celebrity Net Worth, the Mara family connection to the Giants started in 1925. John's grandfather, Tim Mara, bought the franchise for a reported $500. John spent many of his childhood days at Giants games and practices, developing a profound understanding of football operations from an early age.

He graduated from Chaminade High School on Long Island. For higher education, Hohn went to Boston College, where he earned his Bachelor of Science degree in marketing in 1976. He also went on to obtain a law degree from Fordham University School of Law in 1979, providing him with legal expertise that would later prove valuable in NFL negotiations and business dealings.

John is married to Denise W. Mara has one son, John Jr., and four daughters: Lauren, Courtney, Christine, and Erin, according to Mabumbe. Multiple reports claim that he has a net worth of $500 million. He is in his 34th season with the Giants.

The franchise's president and Chief Executive Officer, John assumed the team presidency upon the passing of his father, Wellington Mara, in 2005, according to the New York Giants website. Mara joined the Giants in 1991 as general counsel and later added the titles of Executive Vice President and Chief Operating Officer.

According to Mabumbe, he is the third generation of the Mara family to lead the franchise, following his grandfather, Tim Mara, who founded the team in 1925, and his father, Wellington Mara, who co-owned the team until his passing in 2005.