🔗 Share this article Dallas Cowboys Owner Jones Penalized $250,000 for ‘Inadvertent’ Obscene Gesture toward Spectators The National Football League has levied a hefty $250,000 penalty on Dallas Cowboys proprietor Jones for an action he claims was an “unintentional” offensive hand signal directed at fans during a recent contest at the Jets’ stadium. Viral video clips seemed to capture Jones making an obscene gesture at Jets fans, but Jones insists he was actually giving a thumbs-up to Cowboys fans in attendance as his team secured a 37-22 victory. “That was unfortunate. It was kind of an interaction with Cowboys supporters out in front of us,” Jones explained during a Tuesday interview. “Present was a swarm of Cowboys fans—not Jets fans, Cowboys fans. The entire stadium was filled with enthusiasm for the Dallas team.” He further emphasized that the signal was completely accidental, occurring amid the excitement following the team’s last score. “I simply put up the wrong digit,” he noted. “The action was inadvertently performed. This is sincere. If you want to call it accidental, you can. However, it got resolved pretty quick.” League Precedent for Proprietor Fines This is not the initial instance an NFL owner has been fined for inappropriate behavior. Previous examples include: Panthers owner David Tepper was fined $300,000 for throwing a drink at fans in early 2024. Former Tennessee Titans proprietor Adams received a $250,000 fine in 2009 for a similar obscene gesture. Jones, a figure who is recognized for his media savvy, reportedly has an approximate wealth of $16 billion, making the penalty manageable for the wealthy proprietor. Recent Controversies and Media Spotlight This event comes after a contentious offseason for Jones, who encountered widespread backlash from the Dallas supporters after the team dealt key pass rusher Parsons to the Packers. Moreover, Jones was a central subject in a Netflix documentary that explored his influence in developing the Cowboys into the globe’s most valuable sports franchise, even with its recent title shortcomings. The NFL’s decision to fine Jones underscores its continuing effort to uphold proper behavior among all team officials, regardless of their status or financial standing.