🔗 Share this article Dallas Cowboys Proprietor Jerry Jones Fined $250,000 for ‘Accidental’ Obscene Gesture toward Fans The NFL has levied a substantial $250,000 fine on Dallas Cowboys proprietor Jones for an action he describes as an “inadvertent” offensive hand signal made toward attendees during a recent game at the Jets’ stadium. Widely circulated footage seemed to capture Jones making an obscene gesture toward opposing supporters, but Jones insists he was actually signaling approval to Cowboys fans present at the game as his team clinched a decisive win. “It was unfortunate. It was kind of an exchange with Cowboys supporters seated near me,” Jones stated during a radio appearance. “Present was a large group of Cowboys fans—not Jets fans, our fans. The whole venue was filled with excitement for the Cowboys.” He further clarified that the signal was completely accidental, happening amid the excitement following the team’s final touchdown. “I simply put up the wrong digit,” he noted. “It was accidentally performed. I’m not kidding. If you want to call it unplanned, you can. However, it got resolved rapidly.” Historical Context for Proprietor Fines This is not the initial instance an NFL owner has been penalized for misconduct. Previous cases involve: Panthers proprietor Tepper was penalized $300K for throwing a drink at spectators in early 2024. Then Titans owner Bud Adams received a $250,000 penalty in 2009 for a comparable offensive signal. Jones, a figure who is recognized for his media savvy, reportedly has an approximate wealth of $16 billion, making the fine easily payable for the wealthy proprietor. Recent Controversies and Media Attention The incident comes after a controversial preseason for Jones, who faced widespread backlash from the Cowboys fanbase after the team dealt key pass rusher Parsons to the Packers. Moreover, Jones was a prominent subject in a Netflix documentary that explored his influence in developing the Cowboys into the globe’s highest-worth sports franchise, even with its recent title shortcomings. The league’s decision to fine Jones underscores its continuing effort to maintain proper behavior among all team officials, regardless of their status or wealth.