Tennessee coach Josh Heupel has spoken out against the NCAA’s decision to suspend linebacker Arion Carter for two games. The suspension stems from an outdated rule that prohibits student-athletes from signing with agents to pursue NFL draft opportunities.

NCAA Rule

The NCAA’s rule is clear: student-athletes may not sign with agents to pursue NFL draft opportunities. However, Heupel believes the rule is outdated and does not account for the complexities of modern college athletics. Carter had declared for the NFL draft but returned to college after suffering a foot injury that would have prevented him from being drafted high.

Carter paid back the $427 plane ticket he received from his agent and the school self-reported the ‘violation’ to the NCAA. Despite this, the NCAA upheld the two-game suspension, citing the rule that student-athletes may not sign with agents to pursue NFL draft opportunities.

Heupel’s Response

Heupel expressed his disappointment with the NCAA’s decision, stating that Carter had done everything the right way and that the ruling was ‘bulls–t’. Heupel believes that the rule is outdated and does not reflect the current landscape of college football.

The NCAA’s decision has sparked controversy, with many believing that the rule is unfair and does not account for the complexities of modern college athletics. The suspension will keep Carter out of the first two games of the season, including a primetime matchup against Georgia Tech.

Original reporting: Fox News (HLL/CB) — read the source article.