Jaylen Carey has really stepped up for the Vols this season, giving Tennessee the kind of low-post presence that defines their style of play. He brings an edge every night, whether it's scoring, rebounding, or defending his teammates. Carey is averaging 8.4 points and 6.2 boards for the Vols this year.
The Nate Ament breakout must continue to prove Rick Barnes’s bold statement right
A few days ago, Auburn head coach Steven Pearl called DeWayne Brown II and Jaylen Carey SEC defensive ends because of the physical, tough play they bring. Just a few days later, we have another awesome quote about the big man, Carey, and his physical presence from freshman Nate Ament.
After the game, Ament said, "He’s our bodyguard. He’s our enforcer. I mean, he broke my wrist when I tried to dunk on him this summer, but that’s another story. A guy like that having your back, it’s incredible." The 6-foot-8, 267-pound forward is not someone opponents should mess with.
Jaylen Carey is Tennessee's bodyguard this year
About halfway through the second half, Bishop Boswell took a hit to the face from Ole Miss's James Scott. He caught the ball in the corner and began to drive to the hoop. When he jumped up to try and make a pass, he was met with some brute force by Scott which ended up getting him a flagrent one called on him.
After the whistle, Jaylen Carey went right over to him, making sure Scott knew that he wasn't going to tolerate that. He ended up getting a technical foul, which Rick Barnes didn't appreciate, but you know darn well that fans and his teammates have all his respect for sticking up for Boswell after getting whacked in the face.
These broadcast angles of Bishop Boswell taking a shot to the face are pretty wild.
— Emilie Rae Cochrane (@EmCochranetv) February 4, 2026
I don't know if I've seen a player take more hits this season. Also, Jaylen Carey responded immediately to stick up for his teammate. #Vols pic.twitter.com/B2exNrOzun
As a result, Carey is recognized as a defensive end and the Vols' bodyguard now. Tennessee must rely on him to step up against Kentucky on Saturday, as it's expected to be a tough and physical game. If Felix Okpara can't play, Carey will need to focus on protecting the rim —and his teammates —as he will receive additional minutes.