The NCAA has suspended Tennessee Volunteers linebacker Arion Carter for the first two games of the season due to an impermissible benefit violation.
Carter received a two-game suspension after accepting a $427 flight from an individual identified as his agent to an NFL pre-draft facility. The NCAA classified this as a Level III violation, which it defines as a basic breach of conduct. This suspension is considered a significant penalty for such an infraction.
Tennessee head coach Josh Heupel expressed his disagreement with the NCAA's ruling in a public statement. He emphasized Carter's character, loyalty, and leadership within the program, stating that Carter has always dedicated his collegiate career to the University of Tennessee. Heupel also noted that Carter has ceased contact with the agent and fully repaid the cost of the flight in January. Carter is expected to graduate from Tennessee in August with a degree in public health and honors.
Carter, who played through a foot injury late in the 2025 season, had initially declared for the 2026 NFL Draft. However, he aggravated the injury, requiring surgery, which led to his decision to withdraw his draft declaration. He had accumulated 161 tackles in his collegiate career, with a career-high 76 in 2025, and added 1.5 sacks last year.
Carter will miss Tennessee's season opener against Furman and the subsequent game against Georgia Tech. He will be eligible to return to the field on September 19 for the game against Kennesaw State.