🔗 Share this article Dallas Cowboys Owner Jerry Jones Penalized $250,000 for ‘Inadvertent’ Obscene Gesture toward Fans The National Football League has levied a substantial $250,000 fine on Cowboys proprietor Jones for an action he claims was an “inadvertent” obscene gesture directed at fans during a Sunday’s contest at MetLife Stadium. Viral video clips seemed to capture Jones flashing his middle finger toward opposing supporters, but Jones insists he was actually giving a thumbs-up to Dallas supporters in attendance as his team secured a 37-22 victory. “It was regrettable. That was kind of an interaction with Cowboys supporters seated near me,” Jones explained during a radio appearance. “Present was a large group of Dallas supporters—not Jets fans, Cowboys fans. The whole venue was brimming with enthusiasm for the Cowboys.” Jones additionally clarified that the gesture was entirely accidental, occurring amid the excitement following the team’s last score. “I just put up the incorrect finger,” he noted. “The action was inadvertently performed. I’m not kidding. Should you call it unplanned, you can. But it got corrected pretty quick.” Historical Precedent for Proprietor Fines This incident isn’t the initial instance an NFL owner has been fined for inappropriate behavior. Recent cases involve: Carolina Panthers owner David Tepper was penalized $300K for throwing a drink at spectators in January 2024. Then Titans proprietor Adams received a $250,000 penalty in 2009 for a similar offensive signal. Jones, a figure who is recognized for his media savvy, reportedly has an approximate wealth of around $16bn, so the penalty manageable for the wealthy proprietor. Recent Controversies and Media Spotlight The incident follows a contentious preseason for Jones, who faced widespread backlash from the Cowboys fanbase after the team traded star defensive player Parsons to the Packers. Moreover, Jones was a central figure in a Netflix documentary that explored his role in building the Dallas franchise into the globe’s most valuable sports franchise, even with its modern-era championship drought. The league’s action to penalize Jones highlights its ongoing initiative to maintain proper behavior among all team officials, regardless of their position or financial standing.