🔗 Share this article Cowboys Owner Jones Fined $250,000 for ‘Accidental’ Offensive Signal at Fans The National Football League has imposed a hefty $250,000 fine on Dallas Cowboys proprietor Jones for what he describes as an “inadvertent” obscene gesture directed at fans during a recent contest at the Jets’ stadium. Widely circulated footage seemed to capture Jones making an obscene gesture toward opposing supporters, but Jones maintains he was actually giving a thumbs-up to Dallas supporters present at the game as his team clinched a decisive win. “It was regrettable. It was kind of an interaction with Cowboys supporters out in front of us,” Jones explained during a radio appearance. “Present was a swarm of Cowboys fans—not Jets fans, Cowboys fans. The whole venue was filled with excitement for the Dallas team.” Jones additionally clarified that the gesture was completely unintentional, happening amid the excitement following the team’s final touchdown. “I just put up the incorrect finger,” he remarked. “The action was inadvertently done. I’m not kidding. Should you call it unplanned, you can. But it got corrected pretty quick.” Historical Precedent for Owner Fines This incident isn’t the first time an NFL owner has been fined for inappropriate behavior. Recent examples include: Panthers owner David Tepper was fined $300,000 for tossing a beverage at fans in January 2024. Then Titans proprietor Adams was issued a $250,000 fine in 2009 for a similar obscene gesture. Jones, who is known for his media savvy, reportedly has an approximate net worth of $16 billion, so the fine easily payable for the billionaire owner. Recent Controversies and Public Spotlight The incident comes after a controversial preseason for Jones, who encountered significant criticism from the Dallas supporters after the team traded key defensive player Parsons to the Green Bay Packers. Moreover, Jones was a prominent figure in a streaming series that explored his role in building the Cowboys into the world’s most valuable athletic organization, despite its recent title shortcomings. The league’s action to penalize Jones highlights its ongoing effort to maintain proper behavior among all team officials, regardless of their status or financial standing.