Tennessee LB Arion Carter Withdraws from NFL Draft, Enters Transfer Portal
Tennessee linebacker Arion Carter has decided to withdraw from the upcoming 2026 NFL Draft and will enter the transfer portal instead, as reported by On3.com. Carter, an All-SEC player, initially opted out of the Music City Bowl to focus on his NFL prospects but has since reversed his course of action.
Return to College Football
By entering the transfer portal, Carter aims to make the most of his final year of eligibility in college football. Given the recent changes in the coaching staff at Tennessee, he will not participate in the 2026 season with the Volunteers. Defensive coordinator Tim Banks was let go after the 2025 season and has been succeeded by Jim Knowles. However, Carter’s position coach, William Inge, remains with the team.
Linebacking Corps Developments
The Tennessee linebacker unit is poised for changes as they also added Amare Campbell, a transfer from Penn State. Several players are expected to return for the upcoming season:
- Edwin Spillman
- Jeremiah Telander
- Jadon Perlotte
- Jaedon Harmon
- Jordan Burns
2025 Season Highlights
During the 2025 season, Carter showcased his skills over 10 games, making nine starts despite battling foot injuries. His performance statistics include:
- 76 tackles
- 6 tackles-for-loss
- 1.5 sacks
- 2 quarterback hurries
- 2 pass breakups
- 1 forced fumble
- 1 fumble recovery
Career Overview
Standing 6 feet 1 inch and weighing 235 pounds, Carter hails from Smyrna. Throughout his three-year tenure at Tennessee, he participated in 31 games, earning 22 starts. His freshman season in 2023 was marred by a shoulder injury; however, he rebounded in 2024, contributing significantly to the team’s top-10 ranked defense.
As developments continue regarding Carter’s future and the Tennessee football program, fans and analysts will keep a close eye on his next steps in the transfer portal.
