As expected, the NFL has acted quickly in response to Jalen Carter’s decision to spit at Dak Prescott during the opening seconds of the 2025 Kickoff Game — but the sanction handed down may not be to everyone’s liking.

After an exchange of views as Carter ventured closer to the Dallas Cowboys’ huddle during an injury timeout, in which Prescott spat on the ground, the Philadelphia Eagles defensive lineman went toe-to-toe with the quarterback he was expected to get after all night, and expectorated onto his pristine white jersey. A 15-yard penalty was assessed before a ball had been snapped in anger, but the bigger shock, not least to Prescott, was that Carter was immediately ejected from the game.

The NFL has now ruled whether there should be any further action taken against the third-year player — who openly admitted that he was in the wrong, something that hardly be denied as it had been caught on camera and happened right in front of the officials — and decided to issue the standard fine equating to a week’s wages as well as an unprecedented one-game suspension on top.

However…

…despite ruling it an act of egregious unsportsmanlike conduct, Carter effectively being tossed from the game before it had begun has been considered suspension served, and the former Georgia Bulldog will be available for this weekend’s highlight game against the Kansas City Chiefs, a rematch of last season’s Super Bowl.

The NFL Players Association has informed the league that Carter will not contest the punishment and waived his right to appeal. The NFL, meanwhile, hopes that the decision of the officials on the night and the subsequent punishment from 345 Park Avenue will deter players from similar acts, having made clear that it plans to place particular emphasis on sportsmanship this season.