Sophomore defensive back Boo Carter returned to practice in uniform Tuesday morning as Tennessee resumed fall camp, taking part in open drills for the first time this preseason, per On3’s Austin Price. His appearance marked a clear step forward after beginning camp with workouts on the sidelines.
Carter had been absent from team workouts and offseason activities leading into the start of camp. After addressing his teammates last week, he was gradually reintegrated, returning to the field with a helmet during Saturday’s session and officially joining drills Tuesday morning.
“He’s here, he’s with us,” head coach Josh Heupel said Tuesday, per On3’s Grant Ramey. “And each day we’ll figure out what comes next.”
Heupel emphasized that Carter’s return is ongoing and dependent on completing internal requirements. The details remain unclear, and the coaching staff has declined to set a public timetable for Carter’s full reintegration into team activities.
“There’s some things he’s got to accomplish to get back on the field with us,” Heupel said. “Our leadership council has been involved every step of the way. They care deeply about Boo and want the best for him, as we all do.”
Last week, Carter made visits to Children’s Hospital in Knoxville and appeared to take steps to reconnect with the team off the field. Heupel confirmed that conversations with Carter have continued behind the scenes, but also acknowledged frustrations.
“Disappointed with how some things were handled,” Heupel admitted. “But our focus is on what happens now, not what happened yesterday. We’re moving forward.”
The Vols open their season on August 30th against the Syracuse Orange in the Aflac Kickoff Game at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta. Whether Carter will suit up for that matchup remains to be seen.
For now, Tennessee continues preparing for the season with Carter back in the mix — albeit with his long-term role still to be determined.