Tennessee Defensive Back Boo Carter Leaves Team Amid Controversy

KNOXVILLE, Tenn. — Tennessee defensive back Boo Carter is no longer with the Volunteers football team, a school official confirmed on Sunday. This decision follows a series of disciplinary issues that led to Carter’s absence during a recent game.

On Saturday, Carter did not show up at Neyland Stadium for the No. 23 Volunteers’ homecoming game against Texas A&M. A source familiar with the situation revealed that the coaching staff had informed Carter he would not play due to disciplinary reasons. Despite this, they expected him to attend the game and support from the sideline.

After the Volunteers’ 33-27 loss on Nov. 1, Coach Josh Heupel addressed Carter’s status. He stated, “At the end of the day, there’s a standard you’ve got to meet to be in that locker room, so he was not out on the field with us.” Heupel added that it would be his last comment on the issue for the time being.

The freshman from Chattanooga was a highly recruited player, making the ESPN 300 in the Class of 2024. This season, he played eight games, earning 25 tackles, three forced fumbles, and one sack. In addition, he was known for his punt return skills, averaging 13.2 yards on 11 returns.

Carter’s playing time dwindled after he did not participate in the Volunteers’ previous game due to a coach’s decision. Shortly after his status was confirmed as no longer being part of the team, Carter announced his intention to enter the transfer portal when it opens on January 2. He expressed gratitude to the University of Tennessee coaches and fans in a statement: “Unfortunately my season has been cut short due to injury. I have decided to enter the transfer portal and I am excited about the opportunities going forward!”

Before the season began, Carter’s future with the team was uncertain due to missed summer workouts. In July, Coach Heupel indicated that while Carter remained with the team, he would need to fulfill certain requirements before returning to game play.

The Volunteers’ season record stands at 7-3, with two games remaining, including a matchup against an unspecified upcoming opponent next Saturday.