Jalen Carter ejected just six seconds into Eagles-Cowboys NFL season opener. Here's why

Philadelphia Eagles defensive tackle Jalen Carter was ejected just seconds into Thursday night’s NFL season opener after spitting on Dallas Cowboys quarterback Dak Prescott. The incident came moments after the Eagles celebrated last season’s Super Bowl championship, casting an early shadow over the night. The ejection occurred six seconds into the game, drawing an unsportsmanlike conduct penalty that immediately put Philadelphia on the back foot.

Dallas capitalised with a quick opening-drive touchdown, as Javonte Williams punched it in from a yard out. Prescott had exchanged words with Carter following the kickoff, before Carter spit on his jersey. Prescott signaled to an official, who threw the flag and tossed Carter from the game. Fans booed as the 24-year-old walked off the field, helmet in hand, without taking a snap.



Drafted ninth overall out of Georgia in 2023, Carter quickly emerged as one of the NFL’s premier young defensive linemen and was instrumental in the Eagles’ Super Bowl run last season. Earlier this week, defensive coordinator Vic Fangio had praised Carter’s intensity and urged him to stay focused to maximise his potential.

Carter’s career has not been without controversy. His draft stock slipped due to his involvement in a fatal car crash while at Georgia, which killed teammate Devin Willock and recruiting staffer Chandler LeCroy. He later pleaded no contest to misdemeanor charges of reckless driving and racing, receiving probation and a fine.