🔗 Share this article Cowboys Proprietor Jones Penalized $250,000 for ‘Inadvertent’ Obscene Gesture at Fans The National Football League has levied a substantial $250,000 penalty on Cowboys proprietor Jones for an action he describes as an “inadvertent” obscene gesture directed at attendees during a Sunday’s game at MetLife Stadium. Viral video clips appeared to show Jones flashing his middle finger toward opposing supporters, but Jones insists he was actually giving a thumbs-up to Dallas supporters present at the game as his team clinched a 37-22 victory. “It was regrettable. It was kind of an exchange with Cowboys supporters out in front of us,” Jones stated during a radio appearance. “Present was a swarm of Cowboys fans—not New York fans, Cowboys fans. The entire stadium was brimming with excitement for the Dallas team.” He further emphasized that the gesture was entirely accidental, occurring amid the elation following the team’s final touchdown. “I simply showed the incorrect digit,” he remarked. “It was inadvertently performed. I’m not kidding. Should you call it accidental, you can. But it got corrected pretty quick.” Historical Precedent for Proprietor Fines This is not the first time an league proprietor has been fined for inappropriate behavior. Previous cases involve: Panthers proprietor Tepper was fined $300,000 for tossing a beverage at spectators in January 2024. Then Tennessee Titans proprietor Adams received a $250,000 penalty in 2009 for a comparable obscene gesture. Jones, who is known for his media savvy, possesses an approximate wealth of $16 billion, making the penalty manageable for the wealthy proprietor. Recent Issues and Media Attention The incident follows a contentious offseason for Jones, who encountered significant backlash from the Dallas supporters after the team traded key defensive player Parsons to the Packers. Additionally, Jones was a prominent figure in a streaming series that explored his influence in building the Dallas franchise into the world’s most valuable athletic organization, even with its recent championship drought. The league’s action to penalize Jones underscores its continuing initiative to uphold proper behavior among all franchise representatives, irrespective of their position or financial standing.