🔗 Share this article Cowboys Proprietor Jones Penalized $250,000 for ‘Accidental’ Obscene Gesture at Fans The NFL has levied a hefty $250,000 penalty on Dallas Cowboys proprietor Jones for what he claims was an “unintentional” obscene gesture made toward attendees during a recent game at MetLife Stadium. Viral video clips appeared to show Jones flashing his middle finger at Jets fans, but Jones insists he was actually signaling approval to Cowboys fans present at the game as his team clinched a 37-22 victory. “It was unfortunate. It was essentially an interaction with our fans out in front of us,” Jones stated during a radio appearance. “Present was a large group of Dallas supporters—not New York fans, Cowboys fans. The whole venue was filled with excitement for the Cowboys.” He further emphasized that the gesture was completely accidental, occurring amid the excitement following the team’s final touchdown. “I just put up the incorrect finger,” he remarked. “The action was inadvertently performed. This is sincere. Should you call it unplanned, you can. However, it got resolved pretty quick.” League Precedent for Owner Penalties This incident isn’t the initial instance an NFL owner has been penalized for misconduct. Previous examples include: Panthers proprietor Tepper was penalized $300K for throwing a drink at spectators in January 2024. Former Tennessee Titans owner Bud Adams received a $250,000 penalty in 2009 for a comparable offensive signal. Jones, a figure who is recognized for his publicity flair, possesses an estimated net worth of $16 billion, making the penalty manageable for the billionaire owner. Recent Controversies and Public Attention The incident follows a controversial offseason for Jones, who encountered significant criticism from the Dallas supporters after the team dealt key defensive player Parsons to the Packers. Moreover, Jones was a central subject in a streaming series that explored his role in developing the Cowboys into the globe’s most valuable athletic organization, despite its modern-era championship drought. The NFL’s action to penalize Jones underscores its continuing initiative to uphold professional conduct among all franchise representatives, irrespective of their status or financial standing.