🔗 Share this article Cowboys Owner Jones Penalized $250,000 for ‘Inadvertent’ Offensive Signal toward Spectators The NFL has levied a hefty $250,000 penalty on Cowboys proprietor Jones for what he describes as an “inadvertent” offensive hand signal made toward attendees during a recent game at the Jets’ stadium. Viral video clips seemed to capture Jones making an obscene gesture toward opposing supporters, though he maintains he was actually giving a thumbs-up to Dallas supporters present at the game as his team secured a decisive win. “That was regrettable. That was kind of an interaction with Cowboys supporters seated near me,” Jones stated during a radio appearance. “There was a large group of Cowboys fans—not Jets fans, Cowboys fans. The entire stadium was brimming with enthusiasm for the Dallas team.” Jones additionally clarified that the signal was entirely accidental, occurring amid the elation following the team’s final touchdown. “I just showed the wrong finger,” he remarked. “It was accidentally done. This is sincere. If you want to call it unplanned, you can. However, it got corrected pretty quick.” League Precedent for Owner Penalties This incident isn’t the first time an NFL owner has been fined for misconduct. Recent cases involve: Carolina Panthers proprietor Tepper was penalized $300K for tossing a beverage at fans in January 2024. Former Tennessee Titans owner Bud Adams received a $250,000 fine in 2009 for a similar obscene gesture. Jones, who is recognized for his media savvy, reportedly has an approximate wealth of $16 billion, so the penalty easily payable for the billionaire proprietor. Offseason Issues and Public Spotlight The incident comes after a contentious offseason for Jones, who faced widespread backlash from the Dallas supporters after the team dealt star defensive player Micah Parsons to the Green Bay Packers. Additionally, Jones was a central subject in a streaming series that examined his influence in building the Cowboys into the world’s most valuable athletic organization, despite its modern-era title shortcomings. The league’s action to penalize Jones underscores its ongoing effort to uphold professional conduct among all team officials, regardless of their position or wealth.