🔗 Share this article Dallas Cowboys Proprietor Jones Penalized $250,000 for ‘Inadvertent’ Offensive Signal toward Spectators The National Football League has levied a substantial $250,000 fine on Dallas Cowboys proprietor Jones for what he claims was an “inadvertent” obscene gesture directed at attendees during a Sunday’s contest at MetLife Stadium. Viral video clips seemed to capture Jones flashing his middle finger at Jets fans, though he maintains he was actually giving a thumbs-up to Dallas supporters present at the game as his team secured a decisive win. “It was unfortunate. It was essentially an exchange with Cowboys supporters out in front of us,” Jones stated during a radio appearance. “Present was a large group of Cowboys fans—not Jets fans, our fans. The entire stadium was brimming with enthusiasm for the Cowboys.” He further clarified that the signal was entirely unintentional, happening amid the elation following the team’s last score. “I simply showed the incorrect digit,” he remarked. “The action was inadvertently done. I’m not kidding. Should you call it unplanned, you can. But it got corrected rapidly.” Historical Context for Proprietor Penalties This is not the initial instance an NFL owner has been penalized for inappropriate behavior. Recent examples include: Panthers owner David Tepper was penalized $300K for tossing a beverage at fans in January 2024. Then Titans proprietor Adams received a $250,000 fine in 2009 for a similar offensive signal. Jones, who is known for his media savvy, reportedly has an approximate net worth of around $16bn, so the penalty easily payable for the wealthy owner. Recent Issues and Public Spotlight This event comes after a contentious preseason for Jones, who encountered widespread criticism from the Cowboys fanbase after the team traded star defensive player Micah Parsons to the Packers. Moreover, Jones was a prominent figure in a streaming series that explored his role in building the Cowboys into the world’s most valuable sports franchise, even with its recent championship drought. The NFL’s action to penalize Jones underscores its continuing effort to maintain professional conduct among all franchise representatives, irrespective of their position or wealth.