NCAA suspends Tennessee linebacker Arion Carter two games — over $427 flight

Tennessee’s defense just took an early blow. 

Lineback Arion Carter has been suspended two games by the NCAA after accepting a gift from his agent — a $427 flight to an NFL pre-draft facility, which violated NCAA rules. 

Carter committed a Level III violation, which the NCAA refers to as a basic breach of conduct, and his two-game suspension is among the harshest penalties for what he did. 

Volunteers head coach Josh Heupel said Carter is no longer engaged with the agent and repaid him for the flight in January.

Tennessee Volunteers linebacker Arion Carter (7) speaks to the press during SEC Football Kickoff Media Day at the Tampa Marriott. IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect

While Carter initially declared for the 2026 NFL Draft after playing through a foot injury late in 2025, he aggravated the injury and needed surgery, prompting his decision to withdraw. 

Heupel defended Carter in a statement while disagreeing with the NCAA’s decision to suspend him. 

“Arion Carter represents everything that’s right about college athletics, dedicating all four years of his career to the University of Tennessee,” Heupel wrote on social media. “His high character, loyalty and leadership within our program are unmatched.”

“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.”

Tennessee linebacker Arion Carter (7) returns an interception as he’s hit by Florida running back Ja’Kobi Jackson (24) during the second half of an NCAA college football game on Oct. 12, 2024, in Knoxville, Tenn. AP Photo/Wade Payne

Before being eligible to return Sept. 19 against Kennesaw State, Carter will miss the team’s first two games against Furman and Georgia Tech. 

Carter has 161 tackles in his collegiate career with a career-high 76 in 2025. 

He also added 1.5 sacks last year.