Tennessee defensive back Boo Carter was absent from the Volunteers’ game on Saturday.
Head coach Josh Heupel pointed to team standards when asked about the sophomore’s status.
“At the end of the day, there’s a standard you’ve got to meet to be in that locker room,” Heupel said.
His absence is a clear indicator those standards were not met.
“So, he was not out on the field with us,” Heupel added.
“That will be the last response to anything related to that, right now,” Heupel concluded.
Carter’s absence marks the second straight game where his status with the team was called into question.
He did not play any defensive snaps in Tennessee’s Nov. 2 loss to Oklahoma, appearing only on special teams.
The latest setback continues what’s been a turbulent stretch for the sophomore standout.
Carter was suspended over the summer and missed portions of team activities before fall camp.
In July, Heupel confirmed Carter remained part of the program but said he had “some things he’s got to accomplish to get back on the field.”
Tennessee’s leadership council has reportedly worked with Carter through the process.
Despite the off-field issues, Carter had shown flashes of his potential this season.
He was awarded a game ball earlier in the year for his performance in a win over UAB, underscoring his impact when active.
Heupel has declined to give a timeline for Carter’s return, emphasizing that his availability will depend on meeting program expectations.
This is a developing story.
