The 2025 NFL season got off to an explosive – and wet – start.
The Dallas Cowboys and Philadelphia Eagles managed to score on every possession in the first half, but before either team took a snap from scrimmage, Jalen Carter was ejected.
As the Cowboys offense and the Eagles defense took the field following the opening kickoff, Carter approached Dallas QB Dak Prescott and spat on the quarterback.
Carter’s absence was noticeable in the first half as Cowboys running back Javonte Williams managed to rush for two touchdowns.
Some NFL fans are wondering if Carter will be suspended for his actions. Here’s a look back at similar situations in NFL history.
Will Jalen Carter be suspended?
Based on previous instances where a player spat on another, it’s unlikely that Carter will be suspended.
History suggests that Carter is unlikely to be suspended.
In 2020, then-Baltimore Ravens defensive back Marcus Peters was fined for spitting on Cleveland Browns wide receiver Jarvis Landry, but not suspended.
In 2006, Terrell Owens faced a similar situation and was fined but not suspended for his actions when he spat on Falcons CB DeAngelo Hall. Owens was fined $35,000 for spitting, but wasn’t ejected from the game because the officials were unaware that the incident had occurred.
Additionally, the late Sean Taylor had a similar experience in Washington; he received a fine of $17,000 but was not suspended.
It’s important to note that the latter two situations are nearly decades-old. This offseason, the league discussed the importance of ‘respect for the opponent,’ which is a point of emphasis for officials this season.
Still, a precedent for a suspension for spitting does not exist.
Given NFL history surrounding spitting punishments, Eagles fans should expect Carter to be available for the Super Bowl rematch in Week 2 when the Eagles travel to take on the Kansas City Chiefs.
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