The Dallas Cowboys and New Orleans Saints have been fined $500,000 each due to a brawl that occurred during their joint practice earlier this week. The NFL announced these penalties, highlighting the league's commitment to sportsmanship, especially during joint practices where unsportsmanlike conduct can lead to injuries.
Cowboys owner Jerry Jones recognized the seriousness of the fines but intends to appeal the ruling. He expressed that the events during the practice, which included players removing their helmets and engaging in fights, do not represent the teams or the league positively. "That's pretty harsh, I mean, pretty stiff," Jones stated, acknowledging the league's position on the matter.
Should the fines be upheld, Jones indicated he would also impose penalties on the players involved in the altercation. Linebacker Donovan Ezeiruaku was noted for removing the helmet of Saints offensive tackle Taliese Fuaga and striking offensive lineman Erik McCoy.
Saints rookie wide receiver Brock Rechsteiner was also mentioned for his involvement in several incidents, including a confrontation with Cowboys cornerback Caelan Carson and performing a German suplex on Cowboys safety Jalen Thompson. Further information about the appeal process or any potential player fines remains unclear.
