The preseason buzz is only getting stronger for Tennessee freshman Arion Carter. The reigning Tennessee (High School) Gatorade Player of the Year came to Tennessee with plenty of expectations and they’ve only grown in his short time on campus.
On3 released its Preseason True Freshman All-American team earlier this week with Carter landing as one of three linebackers alongside Texas’ Anthony Hill and South Carolina’s Pup Howard.
“The returns are pretty impressive so far on Carter,” On3’s Charles Power wrote. “I think with Tennessee, they’re looking at continuing to improve their defense, and Carter is primed to make an impact as a freshman.”
A 6-foot-1, 227-pound inside linebacker, Carter committed to Tennessee over Alabama in December after breaking on to the recruiting scene during his senior season of high school.
Carter ranked as a four-star recruit and the No. 129 prep player in the country according to the 247sports composite rankings.
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Seniors Aaron Beasley and Keenan Pili (BYU transfer) will be Tennessee’s starting linebackers to open the season but Carter should immediately see playing time in the two deep. The talented freshman will have a chance to earn more-and-more playing time as his freshman year continues.
Carter early enrolled at Tennessee in January and went through spring practice which has helped prepare him for the season. The freshman quickly impressed his coaches and teammates.
“Oh, man. I have to shoutout Arion Carter,” Castles said earlier in fall camp. “That dude fills holes fast and he’s going to lace you in the hole. I’ve never seen a dude come in so ready to play— from a young guys standpoint.”
