Eagles’ Jalen Carter Ejected Seconds into Season Opener versus Cowboys

The 2025 NFL season opener between the Philadelphia Eagles and Dallas Cowboys featured a dramatic incident before the first play, as Eagles defensive tackle Jalen Carter was ejected for spitting on Cowboys quarterback Dak Prescott. This rare act of unsportsmanlike conduct overshadowed the game, with Carter's early exit severely impacting the Eagles' defense. Despite the loss, the first half saw a tight contest, with the Eagles leading 21-20, aided by strong rushing and scoring on their first three possessions, while the Cowboys scored on all four of theirs. The NFL had come into the game ready to crack down on taunting and obscene gestures following a rise in such incidents last season, making Carter's ejection emblematic of the league's new disciplinary stance. Carter's actions, which some commentators described as detrimental to his team, could also lead to further financial penalties, continuing a pattern of Eagles players facing consequences for on-field misconduct. The rivalry between the Eagles and Cowboys added to the intensity of the game, with Carter's behavior marking a significant moment in the longstanding animosity between the teams.