Vols Star LB Arion Carter Hit With Two‑Game NCAA Suspension

Image: Tennessee Athletics

By Aidan Sidoti

KNOXVILLE – The NCAA has suspended Tennessee linebacker Arion Carter two games for accepting a $427 flight to an NFL pre‑draft training facility, Knox News Sentinel’s Adam Sparks first reported. 

Carter, a Smyrna native, posted 76 tackles, 1.5 sacks, a forced fumble and a fumble recovery during his junior season in 2025.

The penalty stems from Carter’s December declaration for the NFL Draft, when he hired a sports agent who paid for his travel to begin pre‑draft training. On Jan. 16, Carter withdrew from the draft, returned to Tennessee, terminated his agreement with the agent and repaid the $427 in full.

"Arion Carter represents everything that is right about college athletics, dedicating all four years of his career to the University of Tennessee," head coach Josh Heupel said in a statement. "His high character, loyalty and leadership within our program are unmatched. Last December, Arion declared for the 2026 NFL Draft. He signed with an agent and accepted a $427.48 flight to begin the pre-draft process. He withdrew from the NFL Draft prior to the deadline due to a medical procedure and decided in his best interest to return to Tennessee for his senior season. Last January in good faith, he disengaged from the agent in terms of the NFL and paid back the flight in full. “We disagree with the NCAA's ruling on punishing Arion with a multi-game suspension this fall. Arion made the right decision for his future health and well-being. He will proudly graduate from Tennessee in public health with Dean's List honors in August. Our team stands behind AC and his family, and we can't wait to be on the field with him during training camp next week.”