Tennesse linebacker Arion Carter plans to withdraw from draft, enter portal

Tennessee linebacker Arion Carter has reversed his decision to enter the 2026 NFL Draft and has opted to return to college, entering the transfer portal. Carter communicated his decision in an email to Tennessee coach Josh Heupel and Athletic Director Danny White, citing his intention to complete his degree and address health issues, including turf toe, that affected his performance. He emphasized the personal significance of becoming the first in his family to graduate from college and aims to improve his skills for a future NFL opportunity. Carter is not expected to return to the University of Tennessee.

This decision raises questions regarding NCAA rules, which typically prevent athletes from returning to college sports after declaring for a professional draft. However, recent precedents, such as the case of basketball player James Nnaji, suggest that legal challenges could allow Carter to regain eligibility. The situation highlights the evolving landscape of college athletics, particularly in light of Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) opportunities and federal antitrust considerations.