Eagles Coach Declines Comment on Jalen Carter Discipline After Spitting Incident

Philadelphia Eagles defensive tackle Jalen Carter was ejected six seconds into the season opener against the Dallas Cowboys for spitting on quarterback Dak Prescott, an incident that has become a significant test of the NFL's new emphasis on sportsmanship. Carter apologized for the act, calling it a mistake and expressing regret to teammates, fans, and family, while Prescott explained that he had spit ahead as usual and denied any intent to target Carter. Eagles coach Nick Sirianni has stated that any team discipline for Carter will remain private and declined to discuss specifics, emphasizing that such matters are handled internally. The NFL is expected to fine Carter and may consider suspension, though there is no recent precedent for suspensions due to spitting incidents; past players like Terrell Owens and Bill Romanowski were fined for similar behavior. The incident led to a 15-yard penalty before the first snap, contributing to the Cowboys scoring early in the game. This event highlights the NFL's strict stance on unsportsmanlike conduct as teams were warned about zero tolerance for inappropriate gestures this season.