DeSean Bishop issues message on suspended Vols linebacker Arion Carter that everyone needs to read
Tennessee Vols senior linebacker Arion Carter was suspended this week by the NCAA for the first two games of the 2026 college football season.
Tennessee Vols junior linebacker Arion Carter was suspended this week by the NCAA for the first two games of the 2026 season.
According to the Knoxville News Sentinel’s Adam Sparks, the NCAA is suspending Carter because “he returned to college after his agent had paid for a $427 flight to an NFL pre-draft training facility.”
Carter, who returned to Tennessee in January because injuries were going to prevent him from working out for NFL teams before the 2026 NFL Draft, reportedly repaid the money for the plane ticket.
Almost no one in the college sports world thinks the suspension is just at a time when many players are legally earning seven figures to play college football.
Vols running back DeSean Bishop issues statement on Arion Carter
On Friday, Vols running back DeSean Bishop issued a message in support of Carter.
And it’s a message that everyone — including the NCAA — should hear.
“As a teammate, friend, and brother in Christ, I want to express my support for Arion Carter during this challenging time,” wrote Bishop. “Arion is a young man of strong character, integrity, and faith. Throughout my time knowing him, I have seen his commitment to doing the right thing, growing from adversity, and representing his family, teammates, and university with pride. His dedication on and off the field speaks for itself. One of the values our faith teaches us is grace. We all face situations in life that test us, and none of us are defined by a single moment or circumstance.
“What matters most is how we respond, and Arion has consistently demonstrated accountability, humility, and a willingness to learn and move forward. While eligibility matters are handled through established processes, my focus today is simply on supporting a teammate who has worked tirelessly for this opportunity. I believe in Arion as a person, a leader, and a competitor. I also trust that those responsible for reviewing his situation will carefully consider all of the facts and circumstances involved. As a team, we will continue to stand beside him, pray for him, and encourage him through this process. Our faith reminds us that challenges do not define us; they strengthen us, shape us, and provide opportunities to demonstrate perseverance and character. Please keep Arion and his family in your prayers as this matter is reviewed. We remain hopeful, trust in God’s plan, and look forward to seeing him continue to make a positive impact both on and off the field.”
It’s unclear what options — if any — Tennessee has to fight this suspension. Carter’s only hope may be the NCAA coming to its senses and dropping the suspension, but I wouldn’t hold my breath waiting on that to happen. The NCAA is a lot of things, but self-aware is not one of them.