If Philadelphia Eagles defensive tackle Jalen Carter didn’t understand the microscope under which he’s going to operate this season — or maybe even in seasons to come — he should know now.
The NFL handed Carter his second fine of the year on September 27, hitting him for $11,593 for taunting in a Week 3 game against the Los Angeles Rams.
Carter was seen on video taunting the Rams sideline after blocking a field goal in the fourth quarter.
He was also fined a whopping $57,222 for unsportsmanlike conduct for spitting on Dallas Cowboys quarterback Dak Prescott in the season opener — a game in which he also essentially served a 1-game suspension after he was ejected just 6 seconds into the game.
The Eagles are on the road in Week 4 for a game between unbeaten teams when they face the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.
“The NFL fined Eagles DT Jalen Carter $11,593 for taunting after a FG block in last week’s win over the Rams,” NFL Network’s Tom Pelissero wrote on his official X account. “It’s the second time this season Carter has been disciplined for unsportsmanlike conduct. He was ejected and docked a game check for spitting on Dak Prescott in Week 1.
‘Spitgate’ Still Hanging Over Carter’s Head
The spitting incident — now known a “Spitgate” colloquially — made Carter into a ready made villain for the rest of the NFL. Which means any infraction, even as insignificant as a taunting fine, is going to be blown out of proportion.
It’s safe to say Carter won’t be able to live down what happened with Prescott for some time, despite earning NFL All-Pro honors and winning a Super Bowl last year in just his second season in the NFL.
“Legitimately cannot wrap my head around this from Jalen Carter … There’s not even an argument to be made here,” That’s Ball Folks podcast host Josh Reynolds wrote on his official X account on September 4. “Clear as day he spit on him. Won’t be shocked in the slightest if he gets suspended. Absolutely insane & disappointing move. WTF.”
Carter Could Be Generational Talent
If Carter can get out of his own way, he could be a generational talent for the Eagles and in the NFL — and he could land one of the biggest paydays for a defensive player in NFL history as he’s eligible for his first contract extension following this season.
ESPN put Carter as the NFL’s No. 3 defensive tackle in its preseason position rankings as voted on by a group of coaches, scouts and executives.
Carter was ranked as high as No. 1 by several executives and no lower than No. 4. He was an honorable mention pick in the 2024 preseason rankings.
One thing that speaks to Carter actually being the most valuable player on the list is that, at 24 years old, he’s a full 3 years younger than anyone else in the Top 10.
“A year ago, evaluators around the league projected big things for Carter, who had already shown a knack for beating top-shelf offensive guards at the line,” ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler wrote on July 8. “He validated that faith with All-Pro second-team honors, a Pro Bowl nod and a Super Bowl ring. Carter’s 4.5 sacks and 8.8% pass rush win rate are not gaudy, but he’s the classic need-to-see-him-in-person player.”
NFL Announces Another Punishment for Eagles Superstar Jalen Carter