The NFL has levied a hefty $250,000 penalty on Cowboys owner Jerry Jones for what he claims was an “unintentional” offensive hand signal made toward fans during a recent game at the Jets’ stadium.
Viral video clips appeared to show Jones flashing his middle finger toward opposing supporters, though he insists he was actually signaling approval to Dallas supporters in attendance as his team clinched a 37-22 victory.
“That was unfortunate. It was kind of an exchange with our fans seated near me,” Jones explained during a Tuesday interview. “There was a large group of Dallas supporters—not Jets fans, our fans. The whole venue was filled with enthusiasm for the Cowboys.”
Jones additionally clarified that the signal was entirely unintentional, happening amid the elation following the team’s final touchdown. “I simply put up the incorrect finger,” he remarked. “The action was inadvertently performed. I’m not kidding. Should you call it accidental, you can. But it got corrected pretty quick.”
This is not the initial instance an NFL owner has been fined for inappropriate behavior. Recent cases involve:
Jones, a figure who is known for his media savvy, reportedly has an estimated wealth of $16 billion, making the fine manageable for the wealthy owner.
The incident follows a controversial offseason for Jones, who encountered widespread backlash from the Dallas supporters after the team dealt star defensive player Parsons to the Green Bay Packers.
Additionally, Jones was a prominent figure in a Netflix documentary that examined his influence in developing the Dallas franchise into the world’s highest-worth sports franchise, despite its recent title shortcomings.
The NFL’s decision to fine Jones underscores its continuing effort to maintain proper behavior among all team officials, regardless of their status or wealth.
