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The National Football League has levied a substantial $250,000 penalty on Cowboys proprietor Jones for an action he describes as an “unintentional” offensive hand signal made toward fans during a recent contest at MetLife Stadium.

Viral video clips appeared to show Jones making an obscene gesture toward opposing supporters, though he insists he was actually signaling approval to Cowboys fans present at the game as his team clinched a 37-22 victory.

“That was regrettable. That was essentially an interaction with Cowboys supporters seated near me,” Jones explained during a Tuesday interview. “Present was a swarm of Dallas supporters—not New York fans, our fans. The whole venue was filled with enthusiasm for the Cowboys.”

He further emphasized that the gesture was completely accidental, occurring amid the excitement following the team’s final touchdown. “I simply put up the wrong finger,” he remarked. “The action was accidentally done. This is sincere. Should you call it accidental, you can. However, it got resolved pretty quick.”

League Precedent for Owner Fines

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

• Carolina Panthers owner David Tepper was penalized $300K for throwing a drink at fans in January 2024.
• Former Tennessee Titans owner Bud Adams received a $250,000 penalty in 2009 for a similar offensive signal.

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

Offseason Controversies and Public Spotlight

The incident follows a contentious preseason for Jones, who faced significant criticism from the Dallas supporters after the team dealt star defensive player Micah Parsons to the Packers.

Moreover, Jones was a prominent figure in a Netflix documentary that explored his influence in developing the Dallas franchise into the world’s most valuable athletic organization, despite its modern-era title shortcomings.

The league’s decision to fine Jones highlights its ongoing effort to maintain professional conduct among all team officials, irrespective of their status or wealth.