NFL Issues One-Game Equivalent Punishment to Eagles DT Jalen Carter After Spitting Incident – Prescott Escapes Without Penalty After Successful Appeal
The NFL announced on Tuesday that Philadelphia Eagles defensive tackle Jalen Carter has officially received a one-game equivalent punishment following his controversial ejection in Week 1 against the Dallas Cowboys. The discipline comes after Cowboys quarterback Dak Prescott filed an appeal, but league sources confirmed that Prescott himself will not face any penalty.
According to league sources, Carter has been fined the equivalent of a one-game suspension after spitting on quarterback Dak Prescott. Instead of removing him from the lineup, the league converted the punishment into a financial penalty matching his weekly game check.

The NFL clarified that because Carter was ejected before participating in a single play, his suspension is technically considered to have been served in Week 1. However, he will still forfeit his $57,222 game check as part of the discipline. The NFL Players Association has also informed the league that Carter will not contest the ruling and has waived his right to appeal.
Carter, who played just one snap before being removed for unsportsmanlike conduct, admitted fault after the game but expressed his regret toward teammates and fans:
"You know it was a mistake that happened on my side, and it just won't happen again. I feel bad for just my teammates and the fans out there. I'm doing it for them. I'm doing it for my family also but the fans, they show the most love. You heard them out there and not being able to start the game to finish the game just f---- me up, but it won't happen again."
While the punishment officially closes the matter for the league, some Eagles fans expressed frustration that Prescott faced no financial or disciplinary action despite being involved in the altercation. Meanwhile, Carter will move forward eligible to play in Week 2 when the Eagles face the Kansas City Chiefs at Arrowhead Stadium in a rematch of February’s Super Bowl.
The league emphasized in a statement that this ruling reflects its broader focus on sportsmanship in 2025:
"League rules prohibiting unsportsmanlike conduct are of vital importance to everyone involved in the game. The NFL has been clear with players, clubs, and the NFLPA that it plans to place particular emphasis on sportsmanship this season."










