The Dallas Cowboys and New Orleans Saints have each received a $500,000 fine from the NFL due to a brawl that occurred during their joint practice earlier this week. The league emphasized the importance of sportsmanship, especially during joint practices, as unsportsmanlike conduct can lead to injuries.
Cowboys owner Jerry Jones expressed his concern over the fines and announced plans to appeal the decision. He stated that the behavior displayed during the practice, which included players removing their helmets and engaging in fights, does not represent the teams or the league positively. "That's pretty harsh, I mean, pretty stiff," Jones commented, acknowledging the league's position on the matter.
Should the fines remain in place, Jones indicated that he would also consider fining the players involved in the incident. Notably, linebacker Donovan Ezeiruaku was cited for ripping off a Saints player's helmet and throwing a punch, while Saints rookie Brock Rechsteiner was involved in several altercations, including a notable confrontation with a Cowboys player.
Details on the appeal process or any potential player fines have yet to be disclosed.
