🔗 Share this article Cowboys Proprietor Jones Fined $250,000 for ‘Accidental’ Offensive Signal at Fans The NFL has imposed a hefty $250,000 penalty on Dallas Cowboys proprietor Jones for an action he claims was an “unintentional” offensive hand signal made toward attendees 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 signaling approval to Dallas supporters in attendance as his team clinched a 37-22 victory. “It was regrettable. That was kind of an exchange with Cowboys supporters out in front of us,” Jones explained during a radio appearance. “There was a large group of Dallas supporters—not Jets fans, Cowboys fans. The entire stadium was brimming with excitement for the Cowboys.” He further emphasized that the gesture was completely accidental, happening amid the excitement following the team’s last score. “I just put up the incorrect digit,” he remarked. “The action was inadvertently performed. This is sincere. If you want to call it accidental, you can. However, it got resolved pretty quick.” Historical Precedent for Proprietor Fines This incident isn’t the first time an NFL owner has been fined for inappropriate behavior. Previous examples include: Carolina Panthers proprietor Tepper was penalized $300K for tossing a beverage at fans in January 2024. Former Tennessee Titans owner Bud Adams was issued a $250,000 penalty in 2009 for a comparable offensive signal. Jones, a figure who is known for his publicity flair, possesses an estimated net worth of $16 billion, so the penalty easily payable for the billionaire proprietor. Recent Controversies and Public Attention This event comes after a contentious preseason for Jones, who faced significant backlash from the Dallas supporters after the team traded key defensive player Micah Parsons to the Packers. Additionally, Jones was a central figure in a streaming series that explored his role in building the Dallas franchise into the globe’s highest-worth sports franchise, even with its recent title shortcomings. The league’s action to penalize Jones underscores its continuing initiative to uphold professional conduct among all team officials, irrespective of their position or wealth.