🔗 Share this article Cowboys Owner Jones Penalized $250,000 for ‘Accidental’ Obscene Gesture toward Fans The National Football League has levied a substantial $250,000 fine on Dallas Cowboys proprietor Jones for what he claims was an “unintentional” obscene gesture made toward attendees during a recent contest at MetLife Stadium. Widely circulated footage appeared to show Jones making an obscene gesture at Jets fans, though he insists he was actually giving a thumbs-up to Cowboys fans present at the game as his team secured a 37-22 victory. “That was regrettable. That was kind of an exchange with Cowboys supporters seated near me,” Jones stated during a radio appearance. “There was a large group of Dallas supporters—not New York fans, Cowboys fans. The whole venue was filled with enthusiasm for the Cowboys.” He further clarified that the signal was entirely accidental, occurring amid the elation following the team’s last score. “I simply put up the incorrect finger,” he noted. “It was inadvertently done. I’m not kidding. Should you call it unplanned, you can. But it got corrected rapidly.” Historical Precedent for Proprietor Fines This incident isn’t the initial instance an NFL owner has been fined for misconduct. Previous cases involve: Carolina Panthers owner David Tepper was fined $300,000 for tossing a beverage at fans in January 2024. Then Titans proprietor Adams was issued a $250,000 fine in 2009 for a similar obscene gesture. Jones, a figure who is known for his media savvy, possesses an estimated wealth of $16 billion, making the fine easily payable for the wealthy proprietor. Offseason Issues and Public Spotlight The incident follows a controversial preseason for Jones, who encountered widespread backlash from the Dallas supporters after the team dealt star defensive player Parsons to the Packers. Additionally, Jones was a prominent subject in a Netflix documentary that examined his role in developing the Cowboys into the world’s highest-worth sports franchise, even with its recent title shortcomings. The league’s action to penalize Jones highlights its ongoing effort to uphold proper behavior among all franchise representatives, regardless of their position or wealth.