🔗 Share this article Cowboys Proprietor Jones Fined $250,000 for ‘Inadvertent’ Obscene Gesture at Fans The National Football League has levied a substantial $250,000 penalty on Cowboys owner Jerry Jones for what he describes as an “inadvertent” obscene gesture made toward fans during a recent game at the Jets’ stadium. Viral video clips seemed to capture Jones flashing his middle finger at Jets fans, but Jones maintains he was actually giving a thumbs-up to Cowboys fans in attendance as his team clinched a decisive win. “It was unfortunate. It was kind of an exchange with Cowboys supporters seated near me,” Jones stated during a radio appearance. “There was a swarm of Dallas supporters—not Jets fans, our fans. The entire stadium was filled with excitement for the Cowboys.” He further clarified that the gesture was entirely unintentional, occurring amid the elation following the team’s final touchdown. “I just put up the wrong finger,” he noted. “It was accidentally performed. This is sincere. Should you call it unplanned, you can. But it got resolved pretty quick.” Historical Precedent for Proprietor Fines This is not the first time an NFL owner has been penalized for misconduct. Recent examples include: Panthers proprietor Tepper was fined $300,000 for tossing a beverage at spectators in January 2024. Then Titans owner Bud Adams received a $250,000 penalty in 2009 for a similar obscene gesture. Jones, who is recognized for his publicity flair, reportedly has an estimated wealth of around $16bn, so the penalty manageable for the billionaire owner. Offseason Controversies and Media Spotlight This event comes after a contentious preseason for Jones, who faced widespread criticism from the Cowboys fanbase after the team dealt key pass rusher Micah Parsons to the Green Bay Packers. Additionally, Jones was a central subject in a streaming series that explored his influence in building the Dallas franchise into the world’s most valuable sports franchise, despite its modern-era title shortcomings. The league’s decision to fine Jones highlights its ongoing initiative to uphold proper behavior among all team officials, regardless of their status or financial standing.