Overview
- Carter’s dismissal was confirmed Nov. 16 by a school spokesperson, ending a tumultuous sophomore season for the defensive back and punt returner.
- The decision followed Carter skipping Tennessee’s Nov. 15 win over New Mexico State, when he was listed inactive yet was not on the sideline as other injured players were.
- Heupel said, “there’s a standard that you have to meet to be in that locker room,” and declined further comment on Carter’s status.
- Carter played nine games in 2025 as a backup nickelback and primary punt returner, totaling 25 tackles (4.5 for loss), three forced fumbles, and 11 returns for 145 yards.
- After summer absences and a conditional preseason reinstatement, Tennessee is proceeding with freshman Daune Morris on punt returns and young corners such as Colton Hood, Ty Redmond and Jalen McMurray.