Will Jalen Carter face suspension? What past NFL cases say about spitting penalties

Will Jalen Carter face suspension? What past NFL cases say about spitting penalties image

The NFL season opener got off to a bizarre start when Eagles defensive lineman Jalen Carter was thrown out of the game for spitting on Cowboys quarterback Dak Prescott.

The episode happened as Dallas prepared to take its first snap, during a break in action caused by an Eagles injury. That pause gave Carter a chance to get into a heated exchange with Prescott, leading to Carter’s early dismissal.

Although spitting on another player isn’t a routine violation, the NFL does have history with players disciplined for similar actions. Here’s a look at how Carter’s case compares and what consequences may follow.

Jalen Carter spits on Dak Prescott

Before Dallas could run its first play, Eagles defensive tackle Jalen Carter was tossed from the contest after spitting on Dak Prescott. Officials ruled it unsportsmanlike conduct and determined the “non-football act” warranted immediate ejection.

Why did Jalen Carter spit on Dak Prescott?

Reports suggest Carter’s act was in response to Prescott. The Cowboys quarterback appeared to spit near the Eagles’ huddle just before Carter directed one back at him.

Afterward, Carter admitted regret for being ejected and brushed off the altercation with Prescott.

Prescott explained he was only “joking around” with lineman Tyler Booker and never meant to spit toward anyone. He even said he was “offended” that Carter thought it was aimed at him.

Still, Prescott described the ejection as an “unfortunate situation” for Carter.

Will Jalen Carter be suspended?

Even with his ejection, Carter likely won’t miss any games. The NFL usually hands out fines for unsportsmanlike spitting incidents rather than imposing suspensions.

In previous cases, the league issued financial penalties in varying amounts depending on the details of each event.

Notable NFL spitting incidents

One of the most remembered cases came when Sean Taylor was ejected from a playoff matchup for spitting on wideout Michael Pittman.

Terrell Owens also had a run-in in 2006 after spitting on DeAngelo Hall, while the latest example came last September when Saints defender Payton Turner spit on DeVonta Smith following a tackle.