🔗 Share this article Dallas Cowboys Owner Jones Fined $250,000 for ‘Inadvertent’ Offensive Signal toward Fans The NFL has imposed a substantial $250,000 fine on Cowboys owner Jerry Jones for an action he claims was an “unintentional” offensive hand signal made toward attendees during a recent contest at MetLife Stadium. Viral video clips seemed to capture Jones making an obscene gesture toward opposing supporters, but Jones maintains he was actually giving a thumbs-up to Cowboys fans present at the game as his team clinched a decisive win. “That was regrettable. That was kind of an interaction with Cowboys supporters seated near me,” Jones explained during a Tuesday interview. “Present was a large group of Cowboys fans—not Jets fans, Cowboys fans. The entire stadium was brimming with enthusiasm 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 wrong digit,” he remarked. “The action was accidentally done. This is sincere. Should you call it unplanned, you can. However, it got resolved pretty quick.” League Precedent for Proprietor Fines This incident isn’t the first time an league proprietor has been fined for misconduct. Recent cases include: Carolina Panthers proprietor Tepper was penalized $300K for throwing a drink at fans in early 2024. Former Titans owner Bud Adams received a $250,000 fine in 2009 for a similar offensive signal. Jones, a figure who is known for his media savvy, possesses an estimated wealth of $16 billion, so the penalty manageable for the wealthy owner. Offseason Issues and Media Spotlight The incident follows a controversial offseason for Jones, who encountered widespread criticism from the Dallas supporters after the team traded star pass rusher Parsons to the Green Bay Packers. Moreover, Jones was a central figure in a streaming series that explored his influence in developing the Cowboys into the world’s highest-worth sports franchise, despite its modern-era title shortcomings. The NFL’s decision to fine Jones highlights its continuing effort to uphold proper behavior among all team officials, regardless of their position or wealth.