Boo Carter Parts Ways With Tennessee Vols

Boo Carter's Tennessee Tenure Ends After Failure to Meet Program Standards

The tumultuous tenure of Tennessee Volunteers defensive back Boo Carter has reached its conclusion. Carter, once heralded as a cornerstone of the Vols' secondary and special teams, is expected to part ways with the program, sources confirmed to On3, following his absence from the team's victory over New Mexico State on November 15th. The decision comes after Carter failed to meet the established standards set by head coach Josh Heupel.

"At the end of the day, there’s a standard you’ve gotta meet to be in that locker room," Heupel stated bluntly after the 42-9 win. "So he was not out on the field with us. That will be my last response to anything related to that for now." The lack of sideline presence during the game was a clear signal, and Tennessee later confirmed to On3 that Carter is no longer with the program.

A Season of Setbacks for the Chattanooga Native

This latest incident is merely the latest chapter in a frustrating sophomore season for Carter, who burst onto the scene as a dynamic freshman. His 2024 campaign was exceptional, earning him SEC All-Freshman honors and establishing him as a key playmaker. His performance propelled him into the 2025 preseason as a third-team All-SEC selection, generating high expectations.

However, the 2025 season has been fraught with challenges. Carter's troubles began in the offseason with what Heupel termed "offseason malfeasances." This included missing numerous crucial team workouts and, most significantly, confronting team leaders regarding his absences. These actions severely damaged his standing within the locker room and coaching staff.

Carter was allowed to remain with the team but under strict conditions. He slowly worked his way back into practice, starting with individual drills before eventually becoming a full participant. Despite this effort, he never regained his role as the presumed starting nickelback. His playing time diminished, and he was relegated primarily to special teams duties, particularly as a punt returner.

On-Field Decline and Final Decision

When on the field, Carter's production failed to match his freshman impact or his potential. Through nine games in 2025, he recorded 16 total tackles (4.5 for loss), one sack, three forced fumbles, three passes defended, and 11 punt returns for 145 yards (13.2 yards per return). While still contributing, these numbers fell short of the elite level expected from a player with his accolades and preseason hype.

The final straw appears to be an inability to adhere to the standards Heupel emphasized. Carter's absence from the New Mexico State game wasn't just a benching; it was a definitive statement about his commitment and conduct. The coach's refusal to elaborate further underscores that this was a programmatic decision based on repeated failures to meet expectations.

What's Next for Boo Carter?

Carter's departure leaves a significant hole in both Tennessee's defensive backfield and its return game. His natural athleticism and playmaking ability were undeniable assets, but off-field consistency proved to be his Achilles' heel. His future now hinges on whether he can find a program willing to take a chance on his immense talent while understanding the need for strict accountability.

For the Tennessee Vols (7-3, 3-3 SEC), the focus shifts entirely to the remainder of the season, beginning with a crucial matchup against Florida. The team must move forward without the dynamic, yet inconsistent, presence of Boo Carter. His departure serves as a stark reminder of the culture Josh Heupel is trying to build – one where talent alone is not enough; accountability and commitment to the team's standards are paramount.

"There’s a standard you’ve gotta meet to be in that locker room." - Josh Heupel, Tennessee Head Coach