Reports emerged on Tuesday that Jerry Jones acknowledged making an offensive gesture during Sunday’s face-off between the Jets and the Cowboys at MetLife Stadium.
Shortly after this admission, news spread that this conduct would result in a considerable penalty for the Dallas Cowboys’ head. According to ESPN’s Adam Schefter, the NFL is imposing a $250,000 fine on Jones for what Jones has described as an “unintentional” display. NFL Network reports that Jones intends to challenge this fine.
The episode unfolded during the Cowboys’ victory over the Jets with a score of 37-22 on Sunday at the Jets’ home ground. Jones was present and engaged in the questionable exchange with someone from his private viewing area.
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Footage of the incident surfaced after the game. The video showed Jones waving at supporters from his box as the Cowboys geared up to score an additional point, aiming to widen their lead in the latter part of the game.
He also made another, less amicable gesture.
Jones appeared to be smiling while extending the middle finger, and then reinforced the act by pointing, seemingly delighted by the day’s proceedings. Dez Bryant, a former Cowboys receiver, shared the video on his social media with apparent amusement.
Jerry Jones claims he meant to signal a thumbs up
On Tuesday, Jones addressed the incident, confessing to the gesture but claiming it was unintentional.
“It was more of an interaction with fans near our location,” Jones stated to 105.3 The Fan in his regular radio slot. “A large group of Cowboys fans was present—more than Jets fans—Cowboy fans. The energy in the stadium was mostly in favor of the Cowboys, especially as the game progressed. The hand gesture was not deliberate. … There was no hostile intent or anything of that nature. I simply displayed the incorrect hand signal.”
“I’m being serious. If you interpret it as an accident, that’s your choice. But it was quickly corrected. I’ve reviewed it, and the correction was immediate.”
“My intention was to give a thumbs up and acknowledge our fans, as everyone was cheering and visibly excited.”
The league traditionally disapproves of owners engaging in such displays towards the audience. History suggests there is a justification for Jones’ penalty.
In 2009, Bud Adams, the late owner of the Houston Oilers and Tennessee Titans, made a similar gesture while celebrating a Titans’ win over the Buffalo Bills at home.
Adams’ gestures were unmistakable as he repeatedly made the sign, also from his luxury suite.
Adams issued an apology via a written statement hours later.
“I am aware that these types of actions are not acceptable,” Adams stated. “I must specifically apologize to the Bills, their supporters, our own fans, and the NFL.”
Adams’ apology did not prevent the NFL from fining him $250,000. Adams did not comment at the time on whether the gesture was worth the fine. Now, reports indicate Jones is facing a similar situation.
