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The NFL has imposed a hefty $250,000 penalty on Dallas Cowboys owner Jerry Jones for an action he claims was an “inadvertent” offensive hand signal made toward fans during a Sunday’s game at MetLife Stadium.

Widely circulated footage appeared to show Jones making an obscene gesture at Jets fans, but Jones maintains he was actually giving a thumbs-up to Dallas supporters present at the game as his team secured a 37-22 victory.

“It was unfortunate. That was essentially an exchange with our fans seated near me,” Jones stated during a radio appearance. “Present was a large group of Cowboys fans—not Jets fans, our fans. The whole venue was filled with excitement for the Dallas team.”

Jones additionally clarified that the signal was entirely unintentional, happening amid the elation following the team’s last score. “I just put up the wrong finger,” he remarked. “The action was inadvertently performed. This is sincere. Should you call it accidental, you can. But it got resolved pretty quick.”

Historical Precedent for Owner Penalties

This is not the initial instance an NFL owner has been fined for inappropriate behavior. Previous examples include:

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

Jones, a figure who is recognized for his publicity flair, possesses an approximate wealth of $16 billion, so the fine easily payable for the billionaire owner.

Recent Controversies and Media Spotlight

This event follows a contentious preseason for Jones, who encountered widespread criticism from the Cowboys fanbase after the team traded key pass rusher Micah Parsons to the Packers.

Moreover, Jones was a central subject in a Netflix documentary that examined his role in building the Dallas franchise into the world’s most valuable sports franchise, even with its recent title shortcomings.

The league’s decision to fine Jones underscores its ongoing effort to uphold proper behavior among all team officials, regardless of their position or financial standing.