🔗 Share this article Dallas Cowboys Owner Jerry Jones Fined $250,000 for ‘Inadvertent’ Offensive Signal toward Spectators The NFL has imposed a hefty $250,000 fine on Dallas Cowboys proprietor Jones for an action he describes as an “inadvertent” offensive hand signal directed at fans during a Sunday’s game at the Jets’ stadium. Widely circulated footage seemed to capture Jones flashing his middle finger toward opposing supporters, but Jones insists he was actually giving a thumbs-up to Cowboys fans in attendance as his team secured a 37-22 victory. “It was regrettable. It was essentially an interaction with Cowboys supporters seated near me,” Jones explained during a Tuesday interview. “There was a large group of Cowboys fans—not Jets fans, our fans. The entire stadium was filled with enthusiasm for the Cowboys.” He further emphasized that the gesture was entirely unintentional, happening amid the elation following the team’s last score. “I simply put up the wrong finger,” he remarked. “It was accidentally done. I’m not kidding. If you want to call it accidental, you can. However, it got resolved pretty quick.” Historical Precedent for Owner Fines This is not the first time an league proprietor has been fined for misconduct. Recent examples involve: Carolina Panthers owner David Tepper was fined $300,000 for throwing a drink at spectators in January 2024. Former Titans owner Bud Adams was issued a $250,000 fine in 2009 for a comparable obscene gesture. Jones, who is known for his media savvy, reportedly has an estimated wealth of $16 billion, so the fine manageable for the wealthy proprietor. Recent Issues and Public Spotlight The incident follows a controversial preseason for Jones, who encountered significant backlash from the Dallas supporters after the team traded key pass rusher Micah Parsons to the Packers. Additionally, Jones was a central subject in a Netflix documentary that explored his influence in building the Dallas franchise into the globe’s highest-worth sports franchise, despite its modern-era title shortcomings. The NFL’s action to penalize Jones highlights its ongoing initiative to maintain proper behavior among all team officials, irrespective of their status or wealth.