During the opening game of the 2025 season last Thursday night between the Dallas Cowboys and the Philadelphia Eagles, Jalen Carter was charged with spitting on Dallas Cowboys quarterback Dak Prescott in the first play of the game. The Eagles received an unsportsmanlike conduct penalty and Carter was ejected from the game.
On September 9, the NFL has issued a further penalty on Carter of $57, 222 – the equivalent of a week’s salary for the defensive tackle.
According to Carter’s agent, Carter will not appeal the ruling.
After the game, Carter admitted his actions were a “mistake”, saying, “it was a mistake that happened on my side. It won’t happen again. I feel bad for just my teammates and fans out there. I’m doing it for them. I’m doing it for my family, also. But the fans, they showed the most love.”
Just prior to Carter’s actions, Dak Prescott spit on the field but not at any player.
Spitting is nothing new in the NFL, but this year the NFL is focusing on conduct among its players and is quick to respond to the actions of players and their bad behaviour.