One of the biggest tasks on Josh Heupel’s offseason to-do list just took a dramatic turn. Tennessee linebacker Arion Carter, who had declared for the NFL Draft earlier this week, has now pulled a stunning reversal-opting instead to enter the NCAA Transfer Portal.
Carter’s decision adds a twist to what was already a pivotal offseason for the Volunteers. Coming off his best season in Knoxville, Carter recorded 76 tackles, 1.5 sacks, a forced fumble, and a fumble recovery-production that made him one of the anchors of Tennessee’s defense. His departure was expected to be a straight shot to the pros, but Friday’s surprise move opens the door for another year of college ball-just not in orange and white.
Jim Knowles, Tennessee’s new defensive coordinator, had already been aggressive in the portal, likely anticipating Carter’s NFL jump. But this latest move?
It changes the calculus entirely. Instead of preparing for life without Carter in the NFL, the Vols now face the reality of losing him to another college program-possibly one within the SEC.
And make no mistake: Carter is going to be one of the most coveted defenders on the market. With his combination of experience, physicality, and SEC battle-testing, he’s the kind of plug-and-play linebacker who can instantly elevate a defense. Here are three SEC teams that should be all-in on landing him:
Alabama Crimson Tide
Kalen DeBoer is stepping into his first full offseason at Alabama with a linebacker room in transition. Deontae Lawson, Justin Jefferson, and Nikhai Hill-Green are all headed to the NFL, and a handful of others have already hit the portal.
The Tide did add Virginia Tech’s Caleb Woodson, but they’re still light on proven depth. That’s where Carter comes in.
The former Tennessee standout brings SEC experience and a high football IQ-two traits that would allow him to step in as a stabilizing force while younger players develop. For a team that doesn’t rebuild but reloads, Carter could be the perfect one-year bridge to maintain elite defensive standards.
Ole Miss Rebels
Pete Golding’s defense took a hit late in the portal cycle, losing linebacker TJ Dottery among others. With the Rebels aiming to make a serious playoff push next season, replacing that production with someone who knows the SEC grind is critical.
Enter Arion Carter. He’s not just a stopgap-he’s a potential centerpiece.
His sideline-to-sideline range and ability to read plays before they develop would give Ole Miss a leader in the middle of the defense. And with Golding’s aggressive, attacking scheme, Carter’s skill set could be maximized in a big way.
Texas A&M Aggies
Mike Elko’s return to College Station comes with big expectations. After a first-round playoff exit, the Aggies are reloading for another run in 2026, but they’ll have to do it without star linebacker Taurean York, who declared for the NFL Draft.
That’s a major hole to fill, and Carter fits the bill. He brings proven SEC production and could slide into that leadership role immediately.
With a roster loaded with returning talent, Texas A&M isn’t looking to rebuild-they’re chasing a championship window. Adding Carter would be a move that signals they’re going all-in.
Arion Carter’s sudden pivot from the NFL Draft to the Transfer Portal has shaken up the offseason landscape. He’s not just another name in the portal-he’s a difference-maker.
And with multiple SEC contenders in need of a veteran linebacker, don’t be surprised if a bidding war breaks out. Wherever he lands, Carter’s next stop will have major implications for the 2026 college football season.