🔗 Share this article Cowboys Proprietor Jones Fined $250,000 for ‘Inadvertent’ Obscene Gesture toward Fans The National Football League has levied a hefty $250,000 penalty on Cowboys owner Jerry Jones for what he describes as an “unintentional” obscene gesture directed at fans during a recent game at the Jets’ stadium. Viral video clips seemed to capture Jones making an obscene gesture toward opposing supporters, though he maintains he was actually giving a thumbs-up to Cowboys fans present at the game as his team secured a 37-22 victory. “That was regrettable. It was essentially an interaction with Cowboys supporters out in front of us,” Jones stated during a radio appearance. “Present was a large group of Dallas supporters—not New York fans, Cowboys fans. The entire stadium was filled with enthusiasm for the Cowboys.” He further clarified that the gesture was completely accidental, occurring amid the elation following the team’s last score. “I simply put up the wrong digit,” he remarked. “It was inadvertently performed. I’m not kidding. If you want to call it unplanned, you can. However, it got resolved pretty quick.” Historical Precedent for Owner Penalties This is not the initial instance an NFL owner has been penalized for inappropriate behavior. Previous examples involve: Carolina Panthers owner David Tepper was penalized $300K for throwing a drink at fans in early 2024. Then Titans proprietor Adams received a $250,000 penalty in 2009 for a similar obscene gesture. Jones, a figure who is known for his publicity flair, possesses an estimated wealth of $16 billion, making the penalty easily payable for the billionaire owner. Offseason Issues and Public Attention This event comes after a controversial offseason for Jones, who encountered widespread criticism from the Cowboys fanbase after the team traded star pass rusher Parsons to the Packers. Additionally, Jones was a central subject in a streaming series that examined his influence in building the Cowboys into the world’s most valuable athletic organization, even with its recent title shortcomings. The league’s decision to fine Jones underscores its ongoing initiative to maintain proper behavior among all team officials, regardless of their position or wealth.