Charlie Watson
In one of the NFL’s most bizarre kickoff moments yet, Jalen Carter was ejected before even playing a down in the Eagles’ season opener — all thanks to a pre-snap spit that didn’t land well.
Right after the Eagles raised their Super Bowl banner and as players waited while an injured teammate was being tended, Carter and Cowboys QB Dak Prescott exchanged words. Prescott lightly spat toward the ground — apparently part of his usual routine — but Carter took it personally and fired back, literally. The ref flagged it as an unsportsmanlike, non-football act, and Carter was sent packing six seconds into the game.
Post-ejection, Carter offered a contrite mea culpa: “It was a mistake … won’t happen again,” expressing remorse to fans, teammates, and family. Prescott, meanwhile, shrugged off the drama, calling it a misunderstanding and noting he would never intentionally spit on someone.
Media reaction was swift. Stephen A. Smith didn’t hold back, calling the move “selfish” and demanding more than just an ejection—perhaps a suspension.
Still, the Eagles prevailed in the 24 to 20 win, despite Carter’s premature exit and the early 15 yard penalty.
Quick Breakdown
| Highlight | Details |
| Drama Trigger | Carter spat on Prescott after a verbal exchange ”and Prescotts routine spit added fuel to the fire. |
| Penalty | Unsportsmanlike conduct immediate ejection, plus a 15-yard penalty before the first snap. |
| Apology | Carter called it “mistake” and pledged it will never happen again |
| Backlash | Smith and others labeled the act as inexcusable and called for harsher discipline. |
| Game Flow | Despite the chaos, the Eagles held on for a 24-20 victory. |
Bottom Line
Carter turned a simple pregame moment into an NFL spectacle—literally spitting his way into headlines. If the league wants to uphold sportsmanship, the next move will be on the disciplinary front.
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