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Boo Carter could be the master key to Colorado’s defense in 2026.
A master key is something that opens several locks. Boo Carter is someone who plays several positions.
The Tennessee transfer defensive back played a total of 663 defensive snaps for the Vols over the last two seasons. Carter lined up in the slot on more than 71% of those snaps (447), but Coach Prime doesn’t want to put his prized transfer in a box.
“We had a candid conversation on the field last week about playing multiple positions,” Deion Sanders said of Boo Carter on Tuesday. “Boo is arguably the best athlete on the team.”
“He could play safety, he could play corner, slot, return kicks as well and do multiple things.”
Versatility is a trait that Coach Prime has long coveted and Boo Carter has plenty of it.
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The 5-foot-11, 200-pounder totaled three forced fumbles, three PBUs and a sack in eight games last season. Despite being built more like a linebacker (which helps in run support), Carter has the agility and athleticism to blanket quicker receivers in 1-on-1 coverage.
Just ask Kam Perry.
The rare blend of traits has Coach Prime moving Boo Carter all around the secondary as of late. It’s not just because it could help the Buffs‘ defense, but also because it will help Carter’s NFL Draft stock.
“I put him (Boo Carter) at corner the last two weeks because I want to see him do his thing,” Deion Sanders said Tuesday. “I wanted to see him play there because in history, I don’t see them say ‘at slot, chosen in the first round, such and such.’ I don’t see that so I want him to have a chance to exhaust himself, not only at the corner position, the slot position, as well as safety.
“He can do many things and I want him to do all those things that he’s capable of doing so that his draft wealth accelerates. He’s that kind of kid.”
Carter has established himself as Colorado’s starting slot cornerback this spring, but his versatility could allow him to be used as a chess piece at corner or safety in certain packages and matchups.
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The former high school running back also has some punt return experience that could come in handy for the Buffs. During his SEC All-Freshman season in 2024, Carter led the conference with a 16.5-yard average on 12 punt returns.
It’s probably part of the reason why Colorado offensive coordinator Brennan Marion would love the idea of Carter on his side of the ball.
“He chose to come here for a reason and we’re happy with his choices,” Deion Sanders said of Boo Carter. “We’re happy with him being here and we’re going to take full advantage of that and prepare him to be the best that he could possibly be.”
Carter had a rocky tenure (no pun intended) at Tennessee but if he has matured and is able to reach his potential at Colorado, there won’t be many defensive backs in college football better. He’s already reminding his position coach of Travis Hunter and he might soon hear his name called on draft day, too.
“He’s probably going to be one of the most talented guys I’ve ever coached besides Travis,” Colorado defensive pass game coordinator Kevin Mathis said of Boo Carter. “Just the things he does on the football field. Some of the movements that he makes, the plays he makes and his knowledge of understanding himself.
“He knows exactly what his strengths and weaknesses are. He has the talent but has to be consistent doing it.”
Follow Colorado Buffaloes beat reporter Scott Procter on X.
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