🔗 Share this article Dallas Cowboys Proprietor Jerry Jones Fined $250,000 for ‘Inadvertent’ Obscene Gesture toward Fans The NFL has imposed a hefty $250,000 fine on Cowboys owner Jerry Jones for an action he claims was an “inadvertent” offensive hand signal made toward attendees during a Sunday’s game at MetLife Stadium. Widely circulated footage seemed to capture Jones flashing his middle finger toward opposing supporters, but Jones maintains he was actually giving a thumbs-up to Dallas supporters present at the game as his team secured a 37-22 victory. “It was unfortunate. It was kind of an exchange with Cowboys supporters seated near me,” Jones explained during a Tuesday interview. “There was a large group of Cowboys fans—not New York fans, Cowboys fans. The whole venue was brimming with enthusiasm for the Cowboys.” Jones additionally clarified that the gesture was completely unintentional, occurring amid the elation following the team’s final touchdown. “I just put up the incorrect finger,” he noted. “It was accidentally performed. I’m not kidding. If you want to call it unplanned, you can. However, it got corrected rapidly.” Historical Context for Owner Fines This is not the first time an NFL owner has been penalized for inappropriate behavior. Previous cases involve: Carolina Panthers proprietor Tepper was penalized $300K for throwing a drink at spectators in early 2024. Former Titans proprietor Adams was issued a $250,000 penalty in 2009 for a similar obscene gesture. Jones, a figure who is known for his media savvy, possesses an estimated net worth of around $16bn, so the fine easily payable for the wealthy proprietor. Offseason Controversies and Public Attention This event comes after a controversial offseason for Jones, who faced significant criticism from the Dallas supporters after the team dealt star defensive player Parsons to the Packers. Moreover, Jones was a central figure in a streaming series that explored his role in developing the Cowboys into the world’s most valuable sports franchise, despite its recent title shortcomings. The NFL’s action to penalize Jones underscores its continuing effort to maintain professional conduct among all franchise representatives, irrespective of their status or financial standing.