🔗 Share this article Cowboys Proprietor Jerry Jones Fined $250,000 for ‘Inadvertent’ Obscene Gesture toward Fans The National Football League has levied a hefty $250,000 penalty on Dallas Cowboys proprietor Jones for what he claims was an “inadvertent” offensive hand signal directed at attendees during a recent game at the Jets’ stadium. Widely circulated footage appeared to show Jones flashing his middle finger at Jets fans, though he maintains he was actually giving a thumbs-up to Cowboys fans present at the game as his team clinched a 37-22 victory. “That was regrettable. It was kind of an exchange with Cowboys supporters out in front of us,” Jones explained during a Tuesday interview. “There was a swarm of Dallas supporters—not Jets fans, Cowboys fans. The whole venue was filled with enthusiasm for the Dallas team.” He further emphasized that the signal was entirely accidental, occurring amid the excitement following the team’s last score. “I simply showed the incorrect finger,” he remarked. “It was accidentally done. This is sincere. Should you call it accidental, you can. However, it got corrected pretty quick.” Historical Precedent for Owner Fines This incident isn’t the initial instance an NFL owner has been penalized for inappropriate behavior. Recent examples include: Panthers proprietor Tepper was penalized $300K for throwing a drink at spectators in January 2024. Former Tennessee Titans proprietor Adams was issued a $250,000 penalty in 2009 for a comparable offensive signal. Jones, a figure who is known for his media savvy, reportedly has an approximate wealth of around $16bn, making the penalty manageable for the wealthy proprietor. Recent Issues and Public Spotlight This event follows a controversial preseason for Jones, who faced significant criticism from the Cowboys fanbase after the team traded star defensive player Micah Parsons to the Green Bay Packers. Moreover, Jones was a central figure in a streaming series that examined his role in developing the Dallas franchise into the world’s highest-worth sports franchise, despite its recent title shortcomings. The NFL’s decision to fine Jones underscores its ongoing initiative to uphold proper behavior among all team officials, regardless of their status or wealth.