After rumors and speculation surfaced online this week, we now have an official report regarding Tennessee sophomore defensive back Boo Carter.
Knox News’ Adam Sparks reported on Wednesday afternoon that Carter “missed numerous team activities” this offseason. Sparks’ report also states that Carter was “confronted by team leaders” regarding the absences.
It’s unclear what will come of this situation, but questions could be answered soon. Tennessee begins its fall practice slate in one week on Wednesday, July 30, which will be preceded by an in-house media day on Tuesday, July 29.
It’s near certain that Tennessee head coach Josh Heupel will be asked about the situation. Heupel and Tennessee must come to a decision about Carter’s future and status with the team before fall camp begins next week.
Carter is entering his sophomore season with the Vols’ program this fall. He was recently named a Third Team All-SEC preseason selection at SEC Media Days last week in Atlanta and a Fourth Team All-SEC preseason selection by Athlon Sports.
More From RTI: Former Tennessee Football, Current NFL Standout Giving Back to Community
During his first year with Tennessee, Carter was named to the 2024 SEC All-Freshman team. He began the year as a rotational piece in Tennessee’s secondary before starting the final five games of the season at the STAR safety position. Carter was also dynamic as a returner, leading the SEC in punt return average at 16.5 yards per return. He finished the season with 38 tackles, sixth-highest on the team, three tackles for loss, one sack, one interception, and one pass deflection.
Carter’s freshman season led many to expect a breakout sophomore jump in his second season. While taking part in Tennessee training camp this past spring, he even received some two-way opportunities at wide receiver in addition to his role in the secondary. His freshman production and sophomore hype had many selecting the Chattanooga native as their breakout pick on the Vols’ 2025 roster.
While there are still serious questions to be answered, Sparks’ report about team leaders prioritizing accountability is a positive sign for the Vols’ culture heading into fall camp – especially considering the Nico Iamaleava drama that occurred during the spring.
It also coincides with what Tennessee tight end Miles Kitselman said during media days last week in Atlanta. While speaking with 3HL of 104.5 The Zone in Nashville, Kitselman spoke of new vocal leaders stepping up this offseason to spark the program in the right direction heading into the fall slate.
Stay tuned to Rocky Top Insider for more Tennessee football coverage with fall camp in Knoxville just a week away.
Source link