​Will the NFL suspend Jalen Carter? Here's what history says with spitting cases

Philadelphia Eagles defensive tackle Jalen Carter faces questions about a possible suspension after being ejected for spitting on Dallas Cowboys quarterback Dak Prescott in the NFL season opener Thursday night. As the Cowboys offense lined up against the Eagles defense after the opening kickoff, Philadelphia defensive tackle Carter walked toward Prescott and spat on him just six seconds into the game. The incident led to Carter’s immediate ejection, forcing the Eagles to play the rest of the game without one of their most dominant defenders.



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While many passionate Eagles supporters and Carter fans are bracing for the possibility of a suspension over the unsportsmanlike incident, history suggests otherwise - past NFL spitting cases have typically resulted in fines rather than bans. According to USA Today, former Baltimore Ravens defensive back Marcus Peters was fined in 2020 for spitting on Cleveland Browns wideout Jarvis Landry, but he did not face a suspension.

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USA Today also mentioned another incident, which happened back in 2006, when Terrell Owens was fined but not suspended after spitting on Atlanta Falcons cornerback DeAngelo Hall. Owens received a $35,000 fine for the incident, but he evaded ejection as officials did not spot it during the game. The late Sean Taylor also faced a similar case during his time in Washington, receiving a $17,000 fine for spitting but avoiding suspension.

The incidents involving Owens and Taylor took place nearly two decades ago, and only time will tell how much influence they will have on the league’s decision now. This offseason, however, the league placed renewed emphasis on 'respect for the opponent', making it a key point of focus for officials during the current season.

The league typically weighs intent, severity, and prior conduct when deciding punishment. Carter’s ejection after just six seconds has already drawn scrutiny, and whether the NFL opts for a suspension will depend on precedent and context.