🔗 Share this article Dallas Cowboys Owner Jones Penalized $250,000 for ‘Inadvertent’ Obscene Gesture toward Spectators The NFL has imposed a substantial $250,000 fine on Cowboys owner Jerry Jones for what he claims was an “unintentional” offensive hand signal made toward attendees during a recent game at MetLife Stadium. Viral video clips seemed to capture Jones making an obscene gesture toward opposing supporters, but Jones maintains he was actually signaling approval to Cowboys fans present at the game as his team clinched a 37-22 victory. “It was regrettable. That was kind of an exchange with our fans out in front of us,” Jones stated during a Tuesday interview. “There was a large group of Dallas supporters—not New York fans, Cowboys fans. The entire stadium was filled with excitement for the Cowboys.” He further emphasized that the signal was completely unintentional, occurring amid the elation following the team’s last score. “I just put up the incorrect digit,” he remarked. “It was inadvertently done. This is sincere. Should you call it unplanned, you can. However, it got resolved rapidly.” Historical Precedent for Owner Penalties This is not the first time an league proprietor has been penalized for misconduct. Previous examples include: Panthers proprietor Tepper was penalized $300K for tossing a beverage at fans in early 2024. Then Tennessee Titans proprietor Adams was issued a $250,000 penalty in 2009 for a comparable obscene gesture. Jones, a figure who is recognized for his publicity flair, reportedly has an estimated wealth of around $16bn, so the fine easily payable for the billionaire owner. Recent Issues and Public Spotlight This event follows a controversial preseason for Jones, who faced significant criticism from the Dallas supporters after the team dealt star defensive player Micah Parsons to the Green Bay Packers. Moreover, Jones was a central figure in a streaming series that examined his influence in building the Cowboys into the world’s most valuable sports franchise, despite its recent championship drought. The league’s action to penalize Jones highlights its ongoing effort to maintain professional conduct among all franchise representatives, regardless of their status or financial standing.