Jalen Carter Suspended After Spitting at Dak Prescott in Eagles-Cowboys Opener
Philadelphia Eagles defensive tackle Jalen Carter has been suspended for one game after spitting on Dallas Cowboys quarterback Dak Prescott in the opening moments of the season opener, the NFL announced Tuesday.
Suspension Already Applied
The punishment was made retroactive to Week 1 since Carter was ejected before taking a single snap. That means the suspension is considered served, but he will still lose his paycheck for the game. The NFL Players Association confirmed Carter won’t appeal.
Incident Unfolded in Seconds
The drama happened almost immediately after kickoff in Philadelphia. Officials threw a flag just six seconds into the game, ejecting Carter for unsportsmanlike conduct. Broadcast replays showed Prescott spitting near Carter before the two exchanged heated words, leading to Carter’s reaction.
The ejection became the biggest storyline of the night, overshadowing the Eagles’ win in their season debut.
Carter Apologizes to Fans and Teammates
Speaking after the game, Carter admitted his mistake and offered an apology.
“I let my teammates and our fans down,” he said. “I know how much they support me, and I’ve promised it won’t happen again.”
Prescott, meanwhile, downplayed the confrontation. He explained that he wasn’t targeting Carter directly, claiming he was joking with a lineman when he spit, which set off the altercation.
NFL Doubles Down on Sportsmanship
In its statement, the league said it will continue emphasizing sportsmanship and cracking down on unsportsmanlike behavior.
“These rules are vital to the game,” the NFL said. “Players, teams, and the NFLPA were warned that sportsmanship would be a priority this season.”
Looking Ahead to Chiefs Matchup
With the suspension behind him, Carter will be available for the Eagles’ Week 2 matchup against the Kansas City Chiefs at Arrowhead Stadium. The game is a highly anticipated Super Bowl rematch, with Patrick Mahomes and the Chiefs looking to avenge last season’s blowout loss to Philadelphia.