The junior linebacker just wrapped up his third year at Tennessee and his second season starting for the Vols.
KNOXVILLE, Tenn. — Tennessee linebacker Arion Carter has declared for the 2026 NFL Draft. The junior linebacker just wrapped up his third year at Tennessee and his second season starting for the Vols.
Carter posted a statement on his social media: “Tennessee has truly become home for me, and that’s what has made this decision difficult,” said Carter. “I want to start by thanking my coaches for believing in me, pushing me, and holding me to the highest standard every single day.”
The Smyrna, TN, native went on to thank his fellow teammates, saying, “My brothers, thank you for the battles we went through together, the memories we made, and the bonds we built.”
Nowhere in Carter’s statement did he mention he was opting out of Tennessee’s Music City Bowl matchup against Illinois later this month.
Carter missed some time this season with an injury but still ended the year with 76 tackles, 1.5 sacks, a forced fumble, and a fumble recovery in 10 games.
To wrap up his statement, Carter went on to thank Vol Nation, saying, “To the University of Tennessee and the greatest fanbase in the country, thank you for the opportunity to be a Vol…forever grateful, forever a Vol.”
“To the University of Tennessee & the greatest fanbase in the country, thank you for the opportunity to be a Vol.”
Junior linebacker Arion Carter is declaring for the 2026 NFL Draft…#Vols https://t.co/9LMgIMPWOH
— Emilie Rae Cochrane (@EmCochranetv) December 12, 2025