No one expected the Philadelphia Eagles’ season opener to turn into a controversy only seconds after kickoff. In a tense moment, Dallas Cowboys quarterback Dak Prescott and Eagles defensive tackle Jalen Carter became embroiled in a bizarre exchange that ended with Carter’s ejection for alleged spitting.
Just moments after the opening kickoff — less than six seconds into the game — a heated back-and-forth preceded Carter’s act. A referee flagged Carter for unsportsmanlike conduct after spotting what appeared to be spit on Prescott’s jersey. Carter was promptly ejected and the Eagles were penalized 15 yards.
In his postgame comments, Carter offered remorseful words. “It was a mistake that happened on my side. And it just won’t happen again,” he said in the locker room. “I feel bad for my teammates and fans. I’m doing it for them… for my family.”
Dak Prescott’s Perspective, NFL Review
Prescott downplayed the incident, suggesting the entire exchange stemmed from a misunderstanding. He told reporters he often spits habitually. He said he redirected the practice away from teammates, not aiming at Carter. “I wouldn’t spit on somebody. I’m definitely not trying to spit on you… We’re about to play a game,” Prescott stressed.
A referee confirmed that Carter’s act was a disqualifiable foul and a non-football act. The NFL, meanwhile, is reviewing the episode for possible further action.
Additional footage replayed during a weather delay suggested Prescott may have spat first — though he described it as an innocent habit, not targeting Carter.
The incident quickly drew sharp criticism from former players and analysts. Some described Carter’s actions as “disgusting” and “selfish.” Former Eagles center Jason Kelce weighed in on social media, quipping, “I mean everyone knows you don’t spit, you swallow obvi.” He later added, “And the truth shall set you free,” after the contradictory video surfaced.
Despite the controversy, the victory belonged to Philadelphia, as the Eagles held off the Cowboys 24-20 in a dramatic opener that also featured a Super Bowl banner reveal.