Tennessee coach Josh Heupel strongly criticized the NCAA’s decision to suspend linebacker Arion Carter for two games, calling the ruling “bullsh*t.”
Heupel argued the punishment does not fit the circumstances surrounding Carter’s case.
Carter was suspended after accepting a $427 flight during the NFL draft evaluation process before ultimately withdrawing from the draft and returning to Tennessee. Heupel said Carter immediately repaid the expense, remained transparent throughout the process, and handled everything “the right way.”
Fellow linebacker Edwin Spillman told FDP that he agreed with Heupel’s statement.
“Yeah, I mean I think it’s complete BS with everything that happened. But we as linebackers, we as boys, we got his back, and we’re just moving forward,” Spillman said.
Heupel described Carter as the leader of Tennessee’s program, pointing to his academic achievements, leadership roles, and decision to remain with the Volunteers for four seasons.
“I think the ruling is completely outdated,” Heupel said. “Disappointed for him and for us in the result of that ruling.”
Defensive coordinator Jim Knowles echoed his support for Carter while expressing confidence in Tennessee’s linebacker depth entering the season.
“Feel terrible for AC,” Knowles said. “He’s a strong leader, really an alpha in our room, and he’ll be okay.”
Knowles said senior linebacker Jeremiah Telander is prepared to step into a larger role during Carter’s absence, calling him “a guy you can count on” who takes pride in representing Tennessee.
Carter is expected to miss Tennessee’s first two games before becoming eligible to return later in the season.
