Eagles’ Jalen Carter Ejected for Spitting on Dak Prescott Before First Snap of 2025 NFL Season
The 2025 NFL season couldn’t have started with more controversy. In a shocking moment that stunned fans across the league, Philadelphia Eagles defensive tackle Jalen Carter was ejected before the first offensive snap of the season after allegedly spitting on Dallas Cowboys quarterback Dak Prescott.
The Incident
The bizarre scene unfolded seconds after the opening kickoff of Sunday’s game at AT&T Stadium. While referees were reviewing a penalty, Carter approached Prescott near the line of scrimmage. Television replays appeared to show Carter spitting toward the Cowboys’ quarterback after a brief exchange of words.
Officials wasted no time. After a quick huddle, they signaled Carter’s ejection — leaving Philadelphia without one of its defensive stars before the first play from scrimmage.
A Costly Blow for the Eagles
At just 24 years old, Carter had emerged as a cornerstone of the Eagles’ defense. Drafted ninth overall in 2023, he quickly made his mark as a disruptive interior lineman. Last season, he earned his first Pro Bowl selection, finishing with 4.5 sacks and 42 tackles.
His absence immediately changed the tone of the game. With Carter off the field, the Cowboys’ offensive line controlled the trenches early. Prescott leaned on play-action, hitting CeeDee Lamb for a 32-yard gain that set up a short touchdown run by Javonte Williams.
The Eagles responded on their next possession, with Jalen Hurts powering into the end zone on a quarterback sneak. Still, Carter’s ejection left Philadelphia shorthanded in a critical NFC East battle.
Reaction Across the League
The incident quickly went viral on social media. Cowboys fans labeled the act “disrespectful,” while many Eagles supporters voiced their frustration at losing a star player in such a high-stakes matchup.
The NFL has yet to release an official statement, but insiders suggest Carter could face further punishment — including fines or a possible suspension — pending a league review of the footage (NFL.com).
Even neutral analysts were stunned. On ESPN’s NFL Live, commentators called the move “unprecedented” and warned that Carter’s reputation could take a major hit if disciplinary action follows (ESPN).
What This Means Going Forward
For Philadelphia, Carter’s absence raises serious questions. The Eagles entered the 2025 season with Super Bowl ambitions, but losing one of their top defenders — even temporarily — could disrupt momentum in a division where every win counts.
For Carter, the ejection represents more than just one missed game. After earning praise as a rising star and potential franchise cornerstone, this incident risks overshadowing his achievements and putting him under the microscope for the rest of the season.
As the NFL season kicks off, one thing is certain: this storyline will dominate headlines in the weeks ahead. Whether the Eagles can rebound without their young star — and whether Carter can repair his image — may define their 2025 campaign.
