The Dallas Cowboys and New Orleans Saints have each been fined $500,000 due to a brawl that occurred during a joint practice session earlier this week. The NFL announced the fines, emphasizing that sportsmanship is a priority, particularly during joint practices where unsportsmanlike conduct can lead to injuries.
Cowboys owner Jerry Jones expressed his understanding of the league's decision but stated he plans to appeal the fine. Jones described the penalty as 'pretty stiff' and acknowledged that the actions during the brawl, which included players removing helmets and engaging in physical altercations, do not reflect the image the league or teams wish to present.
If the fine is upheld, Jones indicated he would also impose fines on the players involved in the incident. Notably, linebacker Donovan Ezeiruaku was involved in a confrontation where he removed the helmet of Saints offensive tackle Taliese Fuaga and punched offensive lineman Erik McCoy.
Saints rookie wide receiver Brock Rechsteiner also played a significant role in the altercation, first engaging with Cowboys cornerback Caelan Carson and then executing a German suplex on Cowboys safety Jalen Thompson.
