While much of the focus surrounding the Philadelphia Eagles has been on their lackluster second-half performances, another piece is the continued penalties. So often this season, the Eagles have shot themselves in the foot with dumb penalties that breathe new life into the opposing offense.
The team's lack of discipline was noted by defensive tackle Jalen Carter, whose eye-catching comments about the situation were reported by NBC's Dave Zangaro after Week 4's 31-25 win against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.
"Just stop. Don’t get no penalties. Usually, it’s me. It’s not me today. But we’re going to talk to them guys. You get in Florida, that heat brings something out of you. Maybe a little extra oomph."Jalen Carter, Eagles DT
Carter's attempt to push his teammates to make better decisions is shocking, given that he has been a massive part of the problem. Looking in the mirror and understanding where he is falling short, even as Philly is undefeated and his rise continues, speaks to his growth since the first week of September.
Eagles Star Jalen Carter Shares Surprising Message After Sunday's Sloppy Win
Given how much bad press he stirred up by spitting on Dallas Cowboys quarterback Dak Prescott in the season opener, Carter's comments are exciting for Philly fans. If the star defender can maintain playing a clean game, it is easy to imagine the heights he can reach.
Eagles fans are used to him making a couple of regrettable choices per game, so putting those in the rearview would be a welcome development.
While Carter was flagged for a roughing the passer penalty on Sunday, it was a very questionable call. The veteran defensive tackle had broken the pocket and was desperately reaching out to make contact with Buccaneers QB Baker Mayfield or the ball, but it ended up as a high contact, even though there are endless examples of officials letting similar plays go.
Even with this in mind, it was a much cleaner game from Carter and one that ended on a hopeful note. Being able to admit his consistent faults early in the year and sharing a message that it cannot be tolerated from himself or others is a great sign, especially when players can often be their worst enemies.
It's also worth noting that Carter's disciplined performance resulted in season-high Pro Football Focus grades when it came to pass rushing (77.5), run stopping (64.3), and overall defense (72.1).
Carter's mindset must continue throughout the season, even if he's occasionally tempted to do the wrong thing. The Eagles' outlook will be better with him playing like a leader, and his next chance to prove that he can keep doing the right thing will come against the Denver Broncos on Sunday.