🔗 Share this article Cowboys Proprietor Jones Penalized $250,000 for ‘Accidental’ Obscene Gesture at Fans The NFL has levied a substantial $250,000 penalty on Cowboys proprietor Jones for an action 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, though he maintains he was actually giving a thumbs-up to Cowboys fans present at the game as his team secured a decisive win. “That was regrettable. That was kind of an interaction with our fans seated near me,” Jones explained during a Tuesday interview. “Present was a large group of Cowboys fans—not Jets fans, our fans. The whole venue was brimming with enthusiasm for the Cowboys.” He further clarified that the gesture was completely unintentional, occurring amid the elation following the team’s final touchdown. “I simply put up the incorrect digit,” he noted. “It was accidentally done. I’m not kidding. If you want to call it accidental, you can. However, it got resolved rapidly.” Historical Context for Owner Fines This incident isn’t the first time an NFL owner has been penalized for misconduct. Recent examples involve: Carolina Panthers owner David Tepper was fined $300,000 for tossing a beverage at spectators in January 2024. Then Titans proprietor Adams was issued a $250,000 penalty in 2009 for a comparable obscene gesture. Jones, a figure who is known for his media savvy, possesses an approximate wealth of around $16bn, so the fine manageable for the wealthy owner. Recent Issues and Public Attention This event comes after a contentious offseason for Jones, who faced widespread criticism from the Cowboys fanbase after the team dealt key pass rusher Micah Parsons to the Packers. Moreover, Jones was a prominent figure in a Netflix documentary that examined his influence in developing the Cowboys into the world’s highest-worth athletic organization, even with its modern-era championship drought. The NFL’s action to penalize Jones underscores its continuing effort to uphold proper behavior among all team officials, irrespective of their status or financial standing.