We’re less than a week away from Tennessee football taking the stage in Tampa at 2026 SEC Media Days. In anticipation of the event, the Vols announced which three players will join head coach Josh Heupel to represent the program.
Being touted as the faces of the program are a pair of defensive players and one offensive piece. On defense, it’s a pair of returning linebackers in seniors Arion Carter and Jeremiah Telander. They’ll both play a role on Jim Knowles’ first UT defense in a stacked position group.
On offense, it’s returning 1,000-yard back DeSean Bishop. The former walk-on and Knoxville native is coming off a career year and will look to help a young quarterback adjust to SEC play.
Carter is taking the stage for the second straight year to represent the program. In 2025, he joined defensive tackle Bryson Eason and tight end Miles Kitselman. In 2024, UT sent center Cooper Mays, offensive tackle Omari Thomas and linebacker Keenan Pili. 2023 saw Thomas, quarterback Joe Milton III and tight end Jacob Warren make the trip. 2022 featured quarterback Hendon Hooker, wide receiver Cedric Tillman and safety Trevon Flowers. Heupel’s first media day saw him accompanied by cornerback Alontae Taylor and wide receiver Velus Jones Jr.
Almost time to talk 🏈 in Tampa
Arion, Jeremiah, and DeSean (+ Coach Heup) will represent us at #SECMD26#GBO 🍊 pic.twitter.com/sC3RV12QcQ
— Tennessee Football (@Vol_Football) July 14, 2026
More From RTI: Tennessee Football Five-Star Freshman TK Keys Tabbed as Potential Early Household Name
Carter returns this season after entering the NFL draft following the conclusion of his junior year. However, at the deadline, he pulled out and entered the transfer portal. After weighing his options, Carter decided to return to UT for his senior year. The Smyrna, Tennessee, native missed some time in 2025 while battling turf toe but still played in 10 games for the Vols. He racked up 76 tackles, six tackles for loss, 1.5 sacks, two passes defended and one forced fumble on the year.
Telander is another linebacker entering his fourth year with the program. Typically a reliable depth piece in the linebacker room, Telander played in 13 games while recording 80 tackles, six tackles for loss, a sack and an interception.
Bishop returns after a breakout year in his first season as Tennessee’s feature back. He totaled 1,076 yards and 16 touchdowns on 182 carries through 13 games. This marked the third straight season the Vols have produced a 1,000-yard back after Dylan Sampson and Jaylen Wright did it before getting drafted.
