Eagles-Cowboys Opener Marred by Jalen Carter Ejection After Spitting Incident
By Anya Schmidt | PHILADELPHIA – 2025/09/07 10:03:17
The highly anticipated season opener between the Philadelphia Eagles and the Dallas Cowboys took an unexpected turn when Eagles defensive tackle Jalen Carter was ejected early in the game. The ejection stemmed from an incident involving Dallas Cowboys quarterback Dak Prescott, where Carter was accused of spitting.
The controversial moment occurred just seconds after the kickoff. Following a brief exchange, a referee penalized Carter for unsportsmanlike conduct, claiming to have seen spit on Prescott’s jersey. Carter was instantly ejected, and the Eagles were handed a 15-yard penalty.
Following the game, Carter expressed regret for his actions. “It was a mistake that happened on my side. And it just won’t happen again,” he stated in the locker room. “I feel bad for my teammates and fans.I’m doing it for them… for my family.”
Prescott’s Perspective and League Review
Prescott addressed the situation, suggesting it was a misunderstanding. He told reporters that he has a habit of spitting and that he was trying to avoid spitting on his teammates,not aiming at Carter. “I wouldn’t spit on somebody. I’m definitely not trying to spit on you… We’re about to play a game,” Prescott emphasized.
“It was a mistake that happened on my side. And it just won’t happen again,”
A game official confirmed that Carter’s actions warranted a disqualification and were deemed unrelated to the game.The NFL has announced it will review the incident for potential further disciplinary measures.
Replays shown during a weather delay indicated that Prescott might have spat first, though he maintained it was an unintentional habit and not directed at Carter.
The incident sparked immediate backlash from former players and commentators, with some labeling Carter’s behavior as “disgusting” and “selfish.” Former Eagles center Jason Kelce commented on social media, joking, “I mean everyone knows you don’t spit, you swallow obvi.” He later posted, “And the truth shall set you free,” after video evidence emerged that seemed to contradict the initial account.
Despite the controversy, the Eagles secured a 24-20 victory over the Cowboys in a game that also celebrated the unveiling of their Super Bowl banner.
