Sophomore wide receiver Johntay Cook II, a former four-star recruit, is leaving Texas football and entering the transfer portal, as confirmed by head coach Steve Sarkisian in a Zoom meeting on Thursday. While the official reason for Cook’s departure hasn’t been disclosed, it’s believed to be due to limited playing time. The DeSoto native recorded eight catches for 137 yards and two touchdowns this season, with his last reception coming in Texas’ Week 5 win over Mississippi State on September 28.
“It was a mutual decision,” Sarkisian said. Despite Cook’s exit, the No. 5 Longhorns’ receiving corps remains strong. Cook ranks seventh on the team in receiving yards and is tied for fifth in touchdowns.
Initially expected to have a larger role in 2024, Cook saw his playing time reduced due to the addition of junior transfers Isaiah Bond and Matthew Golden, along with returning sophomore DeAndre Moore Jr. and five-star freshman Ryan Wingo, who has quickly made an impact.
Sarkisian acknowledged that such roster changes are part of the game given Texas’ depth, but wished Cook well in his future endeavors.
“We have nothing but respect for him and his family,” Sarkisian said. “We wish him the best of luck moving forward.”
Cook was a key part of Texas’ 2023 recruiting class, ranked No. 3 nationally, which also featured five-star recruits Arch Manning (quarterback), Anthony Hill Jr. (linebacker), and CJ Baxter (running back).
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