“I probably spit about 1,000 times throughout the game,” Dak Prescott denies spitting at Jalen Carter after Eagles star’s ejection

Thursday night’s NFL season opener had just about everything you’d expect from a Cowboys–Eagles clash: intensity, big plays, and, of course, a touch of drama. But perhaps the most talked-about moment of the night wasn’t a touchdown or highlight reel catch; it was the shocking ejection of Philadelphia Eagles defensive tackle Jalen Carter just six seconds into the game.

The 24-year-old was flagged and thrown out after spitting at Dallas Cowboys quarterback Dak Prescott during an exchange before the first play from scrimmage. The incident left fans stunned, and it quickly became the main talking point online.

However, soon after the game, video clips began circulating that appeared to suggest Prescott may have spat in Carter’s direction first, raising questions about what actually sparked the altercation. Prescott, however, wasted no time clearing the air.

The 32-year-old veteran firmly denied spitting at Carter deliberately. He admitted he spits often during games but insisted it was never aimed at anyone, let alone one of the league’s top defensive players.

“I probably spit about 1,000 times throughout the game, especially on gameday,” Prescott said after the win. “In that case, he was trolling, trying to mess with Tyler Booker. I was looking at him by the two linemen, I guess I needed to spit, I wasn’t going to spit on my lineman, so I spit ahead. He was back there and he said, ‘You trying to spit on me?’”

Prescott explained that he was caught off guard by Carter’s reaction.

“At that point I felt like he was insulting me. I wouldn’t spit on somebody, I’m damn sure not trying to spit on you, we’re about to play a game. I’m wondering why you’re trying to mess with the rookie,” he added.

From there, things escalated quickly, culminating in the rash action that led to Carter’s ejection.

“When I stepped through I said, ‘What would I need to spit on you for?’ and then he spit on me in that moment. It was more of a surprise than anything,” Prescott recalled. “The refs obviously saw it, threw the flag. I was like, ‘Hell yeah! We get 15 yards to start the game off.’ Didn’t realize he was getting ejected. Unfortunate that he did; hell of a player.”

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Despite losing Carter almost instantly, the Eagles didn’t fold. Jalen Hurts stepped up in a big way, rushing for 62 yards and two touchdowns while also throwing for 152 yards with near-perfect efficiency. Saquon Barkley chipped in with 60 rushing yards and a score as Philadelphia powered to a narrow 24-20 victory.

Dallas had its moments, too. Prescott finished 21-of-34 for 188 yards, while CeeDee Lamb looked sharp with 110 receiving yards, though a couple of costly late drops proved crucial. The Cowboys’ defense also limited Barkley from breaking loose, but without Micah Parsons, traded just a week earlier, the pass rush lacked its usual bite.

The game also featured an unusual twist: a 64-minute weather delay late in the third quarter due to lightning in the area. The stoppage cooled off both offenses, as the second half turned into a defensive grind after the free-flowing fireworks of the first two quarters.

In the end, the reigning champions did just enough to start their Super Bowl defense with a win, while Dallas left wondering what might have been. As for the Carter–Prescott drama, the league will no doubt review it further, but for now, Prescott insists the matter was simply a misunderstanding.

“I feel bad for just my teammates and fans out there,” Eagles’ Jalen Carter apologizes after altercation in season opener vs. Dak Prescott’s Cowboys.

Philadelphia Eagles defensive tackle Jalen Carter has spoken out following his dramatic ejection in Thursday night’s NFL season opener, offering an apology to his teammates, fans, and the organization. Carter was tossed from the game just seconds after kickoff for spitting at Dallas Cowboys quarterback Dak Prescott.

After the game, the 24-year-old admitted he made a mistake and took responsibility for his actions.

“It was a mistake that happened on my side. It won’t happen again,” Carter said. “I feel bad for just my teammates and fans out there. I’m doing it for them. I’m doing it for my family, also. But the fans, they showed the most love. I wanted to be out there with the guys so bad.”

While the Eagles still managed to grind out a 24-20 win behind Jalen Hurts’ two rushing touchdowns, Carter’s absence left a hole in the defensive front. His ejection now raises questions about further punishment, with a potential suspension looming depending on the league’s review.

That possibility could be costly for Philadelphia. Carter has quickly become one of the NFL’s most disruptive defensive linemen, playing a central role in last season’s Super Bowl run. Since being drafted ninth overall out of Georgia in 2023, he has already racked up 75 tackles, 20 tackles for loss, 10.5 sacks, and four forced fumbles, numbers that highlight just how valuable he is to the Eagles’ defense.

For now, Carter insists the incident was out of character and something he’s determined to learn from. The Eagles, meanwhile, will be hoping their young star avoids a lengthy suspension as they continue their title defense.

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1. What is the NFL’s stance on Jalen Carter’s offense?

The NFL has yet to release an official statement on the altercation. However, the league typically reviews all ejections, and spitting is considered unsportsmanlike conduct that can result in fines or suspensions. Jalen Carter could face additional disciplinary action depending on the league’s findings.

2. Did Dak Prescott actually spit at Jalen Carter first?

Video clips circulated online suggesting Prescott may have spat in Carter’s direction before Carter retaliated. Prescott strongly denied the claim, explaining that while he spits frequently during games, it was never aimed at Carter or any opponent.

3. Will Jalen Carter be suspended after his ejection?

Carter’s ejection alone already serves as a punishment, but the league could hand down further discipline, such as a fine or suspension. Given his importance to the Eagles’ defense, any missed time would be significant for the team.

3. How did the Eagles perform without Jalen Carter?

Despite losing Carter just six seconds into the game, the Eagles managed to grind out a 24-20 win over the Cowboys. Jalen Hurts led the way with two rushing touchdowns, while Saquon Barkley added another. The defense adjusted well, but Carter’s absence was still felt up front.