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The NFL has imposed a hefty $250,000 fine on Cowboys owner Jerry Jones for what he claims was an “inadvertent” offensive hand signal directed at fans during a recent game at MetLife Stadium.

Viral video clips appeared to show Jones making an obscene gesture at Jets fans, but Jones insists he was actually signaling approval to Cowboys fans in attendance as his team secured a decisive win.

“That was unfortunate. That was kind of an exchange with Cowboys supporters seated near me,” Jones stated during a Tuesday interview. “There was a large group of Cowboys fans—not Jets fans, Cowboys fans. The whole venue was brimming with excitement for the Cowboys.”

He further emphasized that the gesture was completely unintentional, occurring amid the elation following the team’s last score. “I just showed the wrong digit,” he remarked. “The action was accidentally performed. This is sincere. If you want to call it accidental, you can. However, it got corrected pretty quick.”

Historical Context for Proprietor Fines

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

• Carolina Panthers proprietor Tepper was penalized $300K for tossing a beverage at fans in January 2024.
• Former Titans owner Bud Adams received a $250,000 fine in 2009 for a similar offensive signal.

Jones, a figure who is recognized for his media savvy, possesses an estimated net worth of $16 billion, so the penalty manageable for the wealthy proprietor.

Offseason Issues and Media Attention

This event follows a controversial offseason for Jones, who faced widespread criticism from the Cowboys fanbase after the team dealt key defensive player Micah Parsons to the Packers.

Additionally, Jones was a central figure in a streaming series that examined his influence in developing the Dallas franchise into the globe’s highest-worth sports franchise, despite its recent championship drought.

The league’s action to penalize Jones highlights its continuing initiative to maintain proper behavior among all franchise representatives, regardless of their status or financial standing.