Arion Carter shows gratitude for HC Josh Heupel: ‘He’s had my back’
By Ethan Stone
Published:
Arion Carter did not suit up for Tennessee during the Vols’ 56-9 blowout win over Furman on Saturday. The Vols linebacker sat on the bench after being suspended by the NCAA for an impermissible $427 flight back in January.
Carter was set to enter the NFL Draft, but as injuries began to limit his ability to prepare, he was advised that a return to college may be in his best interest. Months later, he’s set to make his 2026 debut against Georgia Tech after serving his asinine suspension.
On Monday, Carter spoke with reporters and mentioned his gratitude for Vols head coach Josh Heupel, who fought on his behalf and — alongside the rest of Tennessee’s administration — helped lower Carter’s suspension from 3 games to 1 game.
Here’s what the Vols captain had to say:
“Playing for a coach like that, I wouldn’t trade anyone in the world for him,” Carter said, via GoVols247. “I’ve been through a lot the last several months and he’s had my back the entire time. I don’t know if I’d be able to get through all this if it weren’t for guys like him. I’m so grateful to have a coach like Coach Heupel.”
Heupel has raved about his star linebacker in the past. Following the announcement of his suspension in July, the Vols head coach had the following to say in defense of Carter:
“Arion Carter represents everything that is right about college athletics, dedicating all 4 years of his career to the University of Tennessee,” Heupel said. “His high character, loyalty and leadership within our program are unmatched.”
Carter is one of the best tacklers in the SEC, having led the SEC in tackles per game in 2025 (7.6). His presence will absolutely make a difference on Saturday as the Vols attempt to improve to 2-0 against Georgia Tech in Atlanta.
The Vols and Yellow Jackets are set to face off at 7 p.m. ET on ESPN.
Ethan Stone is a Saturday Down South News Editor and an advocate for the return of the Seattle Supersonics.
