Newcomers Shine Early: Boo Carter Impresses and Joey Aguilar Begins His Journey in First Tennessee Football Practice
As the Volunteers kicked off their first official fall practice under the hot Tennessee sun, two names quickly stood out on the field—freshman standout Boo Carter and newcomer quarterback Joey Aguilar. For both players, it was a day of introductions, first impressions, and the beginning of what they hope will be a meaningful journey in the orange and white. The first day of fall camp always brings with it a fresh sense of possibility and excitement, but few players seized that opportunity like Carter and Aguilar, who wasted no time turning heads with their play and presence.
For Boo Carter, the buzz that followed his recruitment wasn’t just hype—it appears to be reality in the making. From the very first snap, Carter displayed a rare combination of energy, instinct, and athleticism that can’t be easily taught. Even among the more experienced players, he carried himself with confidence, moving with purpose and showing a maturity that belied his freshman status. Whether lining up on defense or taking reps in special teams drills, Carter looked like he belonged. His speed, agility, and ability to quickly read plays were evident from the start, and it didn’t take long for coaches and teammates alike to take notice.
What sets Carter apart at such an early stage isn’t just his physical tools, though they are impressive—it’s his understanding of the game. His reactions are sharp, his footwork precise, and his approach to each rep reflects someone who’s been studying film, absorbing coaching points, and preparing diligently for this moment. Fall camp is often overwhelming for young players, especially in a program with Tennessee’s expectations and tempo, but Carter appeared unphased. There’s a competitive edge to the way he practices that suggests he’s not here to ease in slowly. He’s aiming to contribute now.
That kind of early standout performance doesn’t guarantee playing time, of course, but it certainly opens the door for more reps and opportunities. Coaches will be watching closely over the next few weeks to see if Carter can maintain that level of performance, but the early returns are promising. It’s one thing to arrive on campus with high school accolades—it’s another to back them up in front of SEC-level competition. Boo Carter is doing exactly that so far, and it’s setting the tone for what could be a breakout freshman campaign.
While Carter made noise with his energy and athleticism, Joey Aguilar’s first practice was more about getting settled into the flow of the Volunteers’ fast-paced system. As a transfer quarterback entering a completely new environment, Aguilar’s challenge is as much mental as it is physical. Still, his debut had its moments, and there’s a clear sense that he brings valuable experience and poise to the quarterback room. He operated the offense with calm control, showing a steady hand that reflects the years of college football already under his belt. Aguilar isn’t trying to prove everything on Day One—he’s trying to learn, adapt, and earn trust from coaches and teammates alike.
His throws had zip and accuracy, and even when the timing wasn’t perfect—as is often the case in early practices—Aguilar’s decision-making stood out. He wasn’t rattled when plays broke down, and he moved well in and out of the pocket. There’s still plenty for him to learn in terms of playbook depth, timing with receivers, and managing the Vols’ up-tempo rhythm, but for a first day, it was a solid foundation. More importantly, Aguilar is already showing the kind of leadership and maturity that helps quarterbacks succeed at the SEC level.
It’s always intriguing to watch how new quarterbacks are embraced by their teammates, and Aguilar seems to be fitting in well. He’s vocal when needed but not overbearing, and he carries himself with the kind of quiet confidence that resonates in a locker room. Coaches were measured in their feedback, recognizing that it’s early but acknowledging that Aguilar’s presence brings stability and depth to a critical position. As fall camp progresses, his comfort level should only grow, and with it, his ability to make a push for a meaningful role.
What makes both Carter and Aguilar’s performances on Day One so compelling is that they represent different ends of the spectrum. Carter is the wide-eyed but fearless freshman looking to make an immediate splash, while Aguilar is the seasoned transfer hoping to find his place and bring a steady hand to the team’s offensive engine. Yet both players, in their own way, brought exactly what the program needs—energy, competition, and the kind of hunger that raises the level of everyone around them.
The coaching staff has emphasized since the offseason that this fall camp would be defined by competition. No position is being taken for granted, and every player, whether a returning starter or a new face, has the opportunity to make a statement. Day One didn’t provide answers to every question, but it certainly offered a glimpse into the potential this team possesses, especially with players like Carter and Aguilar pushing hard from the outset.
For the fans, moments like these create a sense of hope and curiosity. Every year brings a handful of players who rise unexpectedly, who seize the moment and force their way into the rotation. It’s far too early to say where either Carter or Aguilar will land on the depth chart come game time, but if the first practice is any indication, they’re on the right track. They’re competing with intensity, embracing the grind, and showing they’re ready to contribute however they’re needed.
The Volunteers are entering a season where expectations are high, and competition in the SEC will be as fierce as ever. Depth will be tested, leadership will be crucial, and every snap will matter. In that kind of environment, players like Boo Carter and Joey Aguilar become even more important—not just for what they bring on the field, but for how they influence the culture in practice. They push their teammates, raise the bar, and bring fresh energy to a roster already focused on improvement.
As fall camp continues, all eyes will be on how these early standouts progress. Will Carter continue to outwork veterans and find a niche in the defensive or special teams units? Will Aguilar close the gap on the starting quarterback job or settle into a key backup role with the potential to lead if called upon? These questions will unfold in the coming days and weeks, but the first step has been taken, and it’s an encouraging one.
Ultimately, the first day of fall practice is about more than just Xs and Os. It’s about attitude, energy, and setting a foundation. Boo Carter and Joey Aguilar did exactly that—bringing their own styles, strengths, and drive to the field in ways that will be felt throughout camp. Tennessee’s coaching staff has to be pleased with the early flashes of potential, but they’ll also be demanding more. One great practice won’t be enough. It never is.
But for now, the Volunteers have two new names to watch—players who stepped onto the practice field and made their presence felt right away. And in the high-stakes world of college football, that’s exactly the kind of start you want.
