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The NFL has levied a substantial $250,000 fine on Cowboys owner Jerry Jones for an action he claims was an “unintentional” obscene gesture made toward attendees during a recent game at MetLife Stadium.

Widely circulated footage seemed to capture Jones flashing his middle finger toward opposing supporters, but Jones maintains he was actually signaling approval to Cowboys fans present at the game as his team clinched a 37-22 victory.

“It was regrettable. That was essentially an interaction with our fans seated near me,” Jones explained during a radio appearance. “Present was a large group of Dallas supporters—not Jets fans, our fans. The entire stadium was filled with enthusiasm for the Dallas team.”

He further clarified that the gesture was entirely unintentional, happening amid the elation following the team’s last score. “I simply showed the wrong finger,” he remarked. “The action was inadvertently done. This is sincere. Should you call it accidental, you can. However, it got resolved rapidly.”

Historical Precedent for Proprietor Penalties

This is not the first time an NFL owner has been fined for misconduct. Previous cases include:

• Carolina Panthers owner David Tepper was fined $300,000 for throwing a drink at fans in January 2024.
• Then Titans owner Bud Adams received a $250,000 penalty in 2009 for a comparable obscene gesture.

Jones, who is known for his publicity flair, possesses an approximate wealth of around $16bn, so the fine easily payable for the wealthy owner.

Recent Issues and Media Spotlight

The incident comes after a contentious preseason for Jones, who faced significant criticism from the Dallas supporters after the team traded key pass rusher Micah Parsons to the Green Bay Packers.

Additionally, Jones was a prominent figure in a streaming series that examined his influence in building the Dallas franchise into the world’s highest-worth athletic organization, despite its modern-era title shortcomings.

The league’s action to penalize Jones underscores its ongoing effort to maintain proper behavior among all team officials, irrespective of their position or financial standing.