🔗 Share this article

The NFL has imposed a hefty $250,000 fine on Cowboys proprietor Jones for an action he describes as an “unintentional” obscene gesture directed at attendees during a Sunday’s game at the Jets’ stadium.

Widely circulated footage appeared to show 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.

“That was regrettable. That was kind of an exchange with Cowboys supporters out in front of us,” Jones stated during a Tuesday interview. “Present was a swarm of Cowboys fans—not New York fans, Cowboys fans. The entire stadium was filled with excitement for the Cowboys.”

Jones additionally emphasized that the signal was completely unintentional, happening amid the excitement following the team’s final touchdown. “I just showed the wrong digit,” he noted. “The action was inadvertently done. This is sincere. If you want to call it unplanned, you can. However, it got resolved pretty quick.”

Historical Precedent for Proprietor Fines

This incident isn’t the initial instance an league proprietor has been penalized for inappropriate behavior. Recent examples include:

• Panthers proprietor Tepper was penalized $300K for tossing a beverage at fans in early 2024.
• Then Titans proprietor Adams received a $250,000 fine in 2009 for a comparable offensive signal.

Jones, a figure who is recognized for his media savvy, possesses an approximate net worth of around $16bn, so the fine easily payable for the billionaire proprietor.

Offseason Controversies and Media Attention

The incident follows a contentious preseason for Jones, who encountered significant criticism from the Cowboys fanbase after the team dealt key defensive player Parsons to the Green Bay Packers.

Additionally, Jones was a prominent figure in a streaming series that explored his role in building the Dallas franchise into the globe’s highest-worth sports franchise, despite its recent title shortcomings.

The league’s decision to fine Jones underscores its continuing initiative to uphold proper behavior among all team officials, regardless of their status or wealth.