The National Football League has imposed a substantial $250,000 fine on Cowboys owner Jerry Jones for what he claims was an “unintentional” offensive hand signal made toward fans during a Sunday’s contest at the Jets’ stadium.
Widely circulated footage appeared to show Jones flashing his middle finger toward opposing supporters, though he maintains he was actually signaling approval to Dallas supporters in attendance as his team clinched a 37-22 victory.
“It was regrettable. It was essentially an interaction with our fans out in front of us,” Jones stated during a radio appearance. “Present was a large group of Cowboys fans—not New York fans, Cowboys fans. The whole venue was filled with enthusiasm for the Dallas team.”
Jones additionally emphasized that the signal was entirely unintentional, happening amid the elation following the team’s final touchdown. “I just showed the wrong finger,” he remarked. “It was inadvertently done. I’m not kidding. Should you call it accidental, you can. But it got resolved pretty quick.”
This incident isn’t the first time an league proprietor has been fined for misconduct. Previous examples include:
Jones, who is recognized for his media savvy, reportedly has an estimated wealth of around $16bn, so the fine easily payable for the wealthy owner.
This event comes after a controversial offseason for Jones, who faced significant criticism from the Cowboys fanbase after the team dealt star defensive player Micah Parsons to the Green Bay Packers.
Additionally, Jones was a prominent subject in a Netflix documentary that explored his influence in building the Dallas franchise into the world’s highest-worth athletic organization, even with its modern-era title shortcomings.
The league’s decision to fine Jones underscores its ongoing initiative to uphold proper behavior among all team officials, regardless of their position or wealth.