🔗 Share this article Cowboys Owner Jerry Jones Penalized $250,000 for ‘Accidental’ Obscene Gesture toward Spectators The National Football League has levied a hefty $250,000 penalty on Dallas Cowboys proprietor Jones for an action he claims was an “inadvertent” obscene gesture made toward attendees during a recent game at MetLife 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 Cowboys fans present at the game as his team secured a decisive win. “That was regrettable. That was essentially an exchange with our fans out in front of us,” Jones explained during a Tuesday interview. “There was a large group of Dallas supporters—not New York fans, Cowboys fans. The entire stadium was brimming with enthusiasm for the Dallas team.” He further clarified that the gesture was entirely unintentional, occurring amid the elation following the team’s last score. “I just put up the wrong digit,” he remarked. “It was inadvertently done. I’m not kidding. If you want to call it unplanned, you can. However, it got corrected rapidly.” Historical Precedent for Owner Penalties This incident isn’t the first time an NFL owner has been fined for inappropriate behavior. Recent cases include: Carolina Panthers owner David Tepper was fined $300,000 for tossing a beverage at fans in January 2024. Former Tennessee Titans owner Bud Adams was issued a $250,000 penalty in 2009 for a similar obscene gesture. Jones, who is recognized for his publicity flair, possesses an estimated wealth of $16 billion, so the penalty manageable for the billionaire proprietor. Recent Issues and Media Spotlight This event follows a contentious offseason for Jones, who faced widespread criticism from the Dallas supporters after the team dealt key defensive player Micah Parsons to the Green Bay Packers. Additionally, Jones was a prominent subject in a streaming series that examined his role in building the Cowboys into the world’s most valuable athletic organization, despite its recent title shortcomings. The NFL’s action to penalize Jones highlights its continuing initiative to uphold professional conduct among all franchise representatives, regardless of their status or wealth.