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Jalen Carter’s night-and possibly more-ended before it even started in the Eagles’ season opener against the Cowboys.

On what should’ve been the first play from scrimmage, the 24-year-old defensive tackle was ejected after spitting at Cowboys quarterback Dak Prescott. The league has yet to announce any further discipline, but Carter could be facing more than just an early shower. The NFL has put a spotlight on respect and sportsmanship in 2025, and this kind of incident-especially happening before a single snap-could prompt a stronger response.

For a team like Philadelphia, losing Carter is no small blow. He’s the engine of that Eagles front, and his absence was immediately felt.

Dallas took advantage, gouging the middle of the defense with their run game and setting the tone early. Without Carter anchoring the line, Philly’s defensive identity looked noticeably less aggressive.

And while an in-game ejection is a punishment in itself-especially when it happens before your cleats even get dirty-the league may not be done. According to reports, how Carter handles the aftermath could shape the league’s decision.

If he owns it and expresses genuine remorse, a fine might be the extent of it. But if contrition isn’t there, the league could make an example out of a high-profile player to reinforce their message: disrespect like this won’t fly in today’s NFL.

Carter, to this point, doesn’t have a history of disciplinary issues. That could work in his favor.

But context matters, and this was a nationally televised season opener between two NFC heavyweights. The optics weren’t good, and when the league is trying to promote sportsmanship, spitting at the opponent’s quarterback before the first whistle is about as bad as it gets.

Still, let’s not forget what Carter brings to the table when he’s on the field. Through his first two seasons, he’s been a game-wrecker-racking up 10.5 sacks, six pass breakups and four forced fumbles. And during Philly’s run to Super Bowl 59, he was a force in the postseason with two sacks and three breakups in four games.

That kind of production is hard to replace. It’s why the Eagles invested in him, and it’s why they’ll be hoping this situation is handled swiftly and doesn’t bleed into Week 2 and beyond.

The Eagles need Carter on the field-not just because of his talent, but because of the tone he sets when he’s playing the right way. Now the question is whether that tone will be shaped by accountability off the field as well.