The Dallas Cowboys and New Orleans Saints have each been fined $500,000 following a brawl during their joint practice earlier this week. The NFL announced the penalties, emphasizing that sportsmanship has been a focus for the league, particularly during joint practices, where unsportsmanlike behavior can lead to injuries.
Cowboys owner Jerry Jones acknowledged the severity of the fines but plans to appeal the decision. He noted that the actions during the practice, including players taking off their helmets and engaging in physical altercations, do not reflect well on the teams or the league. "That's pretty harsh, I mean, pretty stiff," Jones remarked, indicating his understanding of the league's stance on the issue.
If the fines are upheld, Jones mentioned he would also impose fines on the players directly involved in the incident. Linebacker Donovan Ezeiruaku was highlighted for ripping the helmet off Saints offensive tackle Taliese Fuaga and throwing a punch at offensive lineman Erik McCoy.
Additionally, Saints rookie wide receiver Brock Rechsteiner was involved in multiple altercations, including a physical confrontation with Cowboys cornerback Caelan Carson and executing a German suplex on Cowboys safety Jalen Thompson.
