NFL legend urges Apple’s incoming CEO to follow Steve Jobs’ advice

Fran Tarkenton, a devoted Apple investor and NFL Hall of Famer, shared with Business Insider that Apple's next leader should adhere to the counsel Steve Jobs once provided to Tim Cook.

Jobs advised Cook, recognised more for his operations expertise than for product innovation, to blaze his own trail as CEO, starting in 2011.

"Jobs advised Cook, 'When facing decisions, don't think about what I would do. Make the choice you feel is best for Apple,'" Tarkenton explained.

Cook has previously spoken about Jobs' advice during a 2011 memorial service, as reported by Bloomberg.

With John Ternus, the senior VP of hardware engineering, taking over as CEO come September, it signals a shift back to the hardware-driven leadership reminiscent of Jobs, moving away from Cook's emphasis on Apple's services and proprietary chips.

"Ternus is the ideal person at precisely the right moment," Tarkenton commented. The tech world watches as Apple gears up for its forthcoming major breakthrough or strategic move in the AI domain.

Tarkenton praised Cook's impressive impact on Apple, pointing out the expansion of its services sector, which now surpasses some traditional product earnings. However, he emphasised Ternus must leverage his extensive 25-year Apple tenure to thrive.

"Ternus shouldn't attempt to be Tim Cook," Tarkenton concluded.

Vikings icon Fran Tarkenton, who built a significant portion of his wealth post-NFL, stated he began purchasing Apple shares around 2015 after doing thorough research. 

Holding substantial shares as documented by Business Insider, he remains upbeat about Apple's stock.

"I've never parted with any shares, and I reinvest all quarterly dividends," he said.

Having joined Apple in 2001, Ternus has had insiders mention his name as a potential successor for several years. Just last month, Cook downplayed talks of stepping away from his role, telling "Good Morning America" that life without Apple was unimaginable. Cook will continue as executive chairman after handing over the CEO responsibilities.

Tarkenton has faith in Apple's leadership's ability to make wise decisions.

"Successful teams have standout coaches and strong coaches assemble the best players," Tarkenton observed. "Apple naturally excels at selecting the best."