Tennessee linebacker Arion Carter has been suspended for the first two games of the season by the NCAA for accepting a $427 flight from an agent after declaring for the NFL draft. Carter, who decided to return to Tennessee after aggravating a foot injury, has since repaid the agent for the flight.

Tennessee coach Josh Heupel expressed his disagreement with the suspension, stating that Carter embodies positive aspects of college athletics and possesses unmatched character, loyalty, and leadership. The Vols appealed an initial three-game suspension, which was reduced to two games. Carter will miss games against Furman and Georgia Tech, becoming eligible for the Sept. 19 game against Kennesaw State.

Carter, a senior from Smyrna, Tennessee, recorded 76 tackles with 1.5 sacks and one fumble recovery last season. Linebacker is a deep position for the Volunteers, bolstered by the transfer of Amare Campbell and the performance of freshman All-American Edwin Spillman, who led the team with 81 tackles in 2025.