NFL Fines Jalen Carter for Spitting Incident Involving Dak Prescott

The NFL has imposed a fine on Philadelphia Eagles defensive tackle Jalen Carter following an incident where he spat on Dallas Cowboys quarterback Dak Prescott during their season opener. The league announced the disciplinary action on September 9.

Carter, 24, will pay a fine of $57,222, as reported by sources. Despite the unusual nature of the incident, he will not miss any game time. The NFL clarified that Carter has been suspended without pay for one game due to unsportsmanlike conduct, but since he was ejected before participating in any plays, the suspension is considered served in Week 1, resulting in a forfeiture of his game check.

The NFL Players Association has indicated that Carter will not appeal the decision, allowing him to play in the upcoming Week 2 matchup against the Kansas City Chiefs.

The Eagles are set to face the Chiefs on Sunday, September 14. The incident occurred during the game against the Cowboys on September 4, where Carter was ejected after spitting on Prescott before the first play from scrimmage.

Post-game, Carter acknowledged his actions, calling it a “mistake.” He expressed regret for letting down his teammates and fans, stating, “I feel bad for just my teammates and the fans out there. You know, I’m doing it for them.” He added that not being able to start the game properly affected him deeply.

Adding complexity to the situation, video footage surfaced suggesting that Prescott may have spat in Carter’s direction prior to the latter’s action. Prescott addressed the media after the game, attempting to clarify his side of the story.

“I was just looking at [Carter] and I was right here in between two linemen,” Prescott explained. “I guess I needed to spit, and I wasn’t going to spit on my linemen, so I just spit ahead.” He recounted how Carter confronted him about the perceived insult, asking if he was trying to spit on him.

Prescott continued, “At that point, I felt like he was insulting me. I wouldn’t spit on somebody and I’m damn sure not trying to spit on you; we’re trying to play a game.” He described his surprise at Carter’s reaction, emphasizing that it was unexpected.