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The NFL has levied a substantial $250,000 fine on Dallas Cowboys proprietor Jones for an action he claims was an “inadvertent” obscene gesture made toward fans during a recent contest at the Jets’ stadium.

Widely circulated footage appeared to show Jones making an obscene gesture toward opposing supporters, 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 explained during a Tuesday interview. “There was a large group of Cowboys fans—not New York fans, our fans. The whole venue was filled with excitement for the Cowboys.”

Jones additionally emphasized that the signal was entirely unintentional, occurring amid the excitement following the team’s final touchdown. “I simply showed the wrong finger,” he noted. “The action was accidentally performed. This is sincere. Should you call it accidental, you can. However, it got resolved pretty quick.”

Historical Precedent for Owner Fines

This incident isn’t the initial instance an NFL owner has been fined for inappropriate behavior. Previous examples include:

• Panthers proprietor Tepper was penalized $300K for throwing a drink at spectators in January 2024.
• Then Tennessee Titans proprietor Adams was issued a $250,000 penalty in 2009 for a comparable offensive signal.

Jones, who is known for his publicity flair, possesses an approximate net worth of $16 billion, making the penalty manageable for the wealthy proprietor.

Offseason Controversies and Public Attention

The incident comes after a contentious offseason for Jones, who faced widespread criticism from the Dallas supporters after the team traded key defensive player Parsons to the Packers.

Moreover, Jones was a central subject in a streaming series that explored his influence in building the Dallas franchise into the world’s most valuable athletic organization, despite its recent title shortcomings.

The NFL’s action to penalize Jones highlights its continuing effort to maintain proper behavior among all franchise representatives, regardless of their position or wealth.