The Dallas Cowboys and New Orleans Saints have been fined $500,000 each by the NFL due to a brawl that occurred during their joint practice earlier this week. The league emphasized the importance of sportsmanship, particularly in joint practices, where such behavior can lead to injuries.
Cowboys owner Jerry Jones expressed his intention to appeal the fines, acknowledging the seriousness of the situation. He stated that the actions displayed 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 commented, recognizing the league's position on unsportsmanlike conduct.
Should the fines remain in place, Jones indicated that he would also consider fining 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 involved in several incidents, including a confrontation with Cowboys cornerback Caelan Carson and performing a wrestling move on Cowboys safety Jalen Thompson.
Details regarding the appeal process and any additional player fines have yet to be disclosed.