During his 1984 season in a game against Washington State Charles injured his fibula severely. Despite, completing the game with his injury, he missed three games. In a game against Alabama, he tallied 8 tackles in Tennessee’s 28–27 win. He completed the season with 22 of 34 tackles, 4 passes defended, and 2 interceptions.
In 1985 he was named Preseason All-SEC team. That season he completed with 33 of 59 tackles, forced 2 fumbles, and 2 passes defended. After four years, he was eventually awarded his degree in political science.
