🔗 Share this article Cowboys Proprietor Jerry Jones Fined $250,000 for ‘Inadvertent’ Obscene Gesture at Spectators The NFL has imposed a hefty $250,000 fine on Dallas Cowboys owner Jerry Jones for an action he describes as an “inadvertent” offensive hand signal directed at fans during a Sunday’s contest at the Jets’ stadium. Viral video clips seemed to capture Jones making an obscene gesture at Jets fans, though he maintains he was actually signaling approval to Cowboys fans present at the game as his team secured a decisive win. “It was unfortunate. It was kind of an exchange with our fans out in front of us,” Jones explained during a Tuesday interview. “There was a large group of Dallas supporters—not New York fans, our fans. The entire stadium was filled with excitement for the Dallas team.” Jones additionally clarified that the signal was completely accidental, occurring amid the elation following the team’s last score. “I just showed the incorrect digit,” he noted. “It was accidentally done. This is sincere. If you want to call it accidental, you can. However, it got resolved rapidly.” League Precedent for Proprietor Fines This incident isn’t the initial instance an NFL owner has been penalized for misconduct. Recent examples involve: Carolina Panthers owner David Tepper was fined $300,000 for tossing a beverage at spectators in January 2024. Former Tennessee Titans proprietor Adams was issued a $250,000 fine in 2009 for a similar obscene gesture. Jones, who is recognized for his media savvy, possesses an estimated wealth of around $16bn, so the penalty easily payable for the billionaire owner. Offseason Controversies and Media Attention This event comes after a controversial preseason for Jones, who faced significant criticism from the Dallas supporters after the team traded star defensive player Parsons to the Green Bay Packers. Additionally, Jones was a prominent subject in a Netflix documentary that examined his influence in building the Cowboys into the world’s most valuable athletic organization, even with its recent championship drought. The league’s decision to fine Jones highlights its continuing initiative to uphold proper behavior among all team officials, regardless of their status or wealth.