The Dallas Cowboys and New Orleans Saints have been fined $500,000 each by the NFL following a brawl that occurred during their joint practice earlier this week. The league emphasized the importance of sportsmanship, particularly during such practices where unsportsmanlike conduct can lead to injuries.
Cowboys owner Jerry Jones expressed his intention to appeal the fine, acknowledging its severity. He stated that the actions taken by players, such as removing helmets and engaging in fights, do not represent the teams or the league positively. "That's pretty harsh, I mean, pretty stiff," Jones commented.
Should the fines remain in place, Jones indicated that he would also impose penalties on the players involved. Notably, linebacker Donovan Ezeiruaku was cited 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 multiple altercations, including a confrontation with Cowboys cornerback Caelan Carson and executing a German suplex on Cowboys safety Jalen Thompson. Further information on the appeal process or additional player fines has not yet been provided.