Return from suspension isn't only reason Tennessee fans should cheer whenever LB Arion Carter makes a tackle in Week 2 against Georgia Tech

"[My mother] always wanted to raise a foundation or a nonprofit for women and little girls," Carter told the media (h/t Rylee Robinson of WVLT-TV in Knoxville). "And with my girlfriend, going through what she's went through these last couple of months, and me seeing it firsthand, it just really touched my heart."

Carter's girlfriend, Mariah Bryant, 24, was diagnosed with Stage 2 breast cancer in February, and she is undergoing chemotherapy treatments. In June, Carter cut his hair to match hers.

Carter's mother, Sheteka Alexander, started a nonprofit, Girls in Real Life Situations (GIRLS). The LB is partnering with his mother's nonprofit for the fundraiser. 

"I think it's indicative of who he is, right?" Volunteers HC Josh Heupel said during his Monday news conference. "He's passionate about a cause for multiple reasons, obviously his girlfriend, but his family history as well. A guy who cares about community, so it's just indicative of who he is as a person. The dollar amount certainly keeps the story alive too." 

Carter should make a big impact on and off the field in 2026. Last season, he logged 76 tackles, 1.5 sacks and recovered one fumble in 10 games. If he produces the same numbers in 2026, that would equal $33,609.50 in donations. He'll certainly be aiming to top that figure.