At a Glance
- Jalen Carter blocks a Bills PAT to clinch a win and earns NFC Special Teams Player of the Week.
- His second block this year ties him with Jordan Davis as interior linemen to win the award.
- Only two interior linemen have earned the honor this season, both from the Eagles.
- Why it matters: Carter’s play highlights the defensive line’s impact on special teams and keeps the Eagles in playoff contention.
Jalen Carter returned from a shoulder injury to block a Bills point-after-touchdown in Week 17, a play that sealed the Eagles’ 13-7 victory.
Carter’s Game-Changing Block
With 5:15 left in the fourth quarter, the Bills tied the game at 13-6. Carter leapt to block Michael Bagley’s PAT, preventing a two-point win. The Eagles later scored another touchdown; the Bills chose to go for two, but Josh Allen’s pass was incomplete.
- Third sack of the season
- Tackle for loss
- Pass breakup
- Quarterback hit
Season Highlights and Awards
Carter was named to his second straight Pro Bowl roster despite missing five games-one ejection, one heel injury, and three shoulder-soreness outings.
- Ejected game
- Heel injury game
- Three shoulder-soreness games
Coaching Praise and Historical Context
Michael Clay remarked:
> “I’ve never seen a get off like that from an interior alignment. The only person I could probably see that’s blocked that many kicks in such a short period is Calais Campbell. But for him to get past the long snapper then get his hands up with his athletic ability is really awesome to see him right there.”
- Only two interior linemen have earned the award this season
- The last Eagles defensive lineman to win was Jevon Kearse in 2004
Eagles’ Special Teams Landscape
Jordan Davis captured the award in Week 3 after blocking a field goal and returning it for a touchdown. The Eagles have yet to earn an Offensive Player of the Week.
Key Takeaways
- Carter’s PAT block was pivotal in securing the win.
- His second block this year ties him with Davis as the only interior linemen to win the award.
- The Eagles’ special-teams unit remains a critical edge in close games.
The play underscores how a single moment on special teams can swing a game and keep a team alive in the playoff race.
