Johntay Cook II won't be a part of the Texas Longhorns next season, as the wide receiver has transferred to the University of Washington. The player announced his decision through an Instagram post, which featured him wearing the Huskies' uniform in a series of pictures, including one with his parents.
One of those reacting to the news was backup quarterback Arch Manning, who posted a single emoji in response to Cook's Instagram post.
Johntay Cook II came to Austin as a four-star prospect in January 2023, according to 247Sports. At the time, he was ranked as the 38th prospect in the nation and the seventh-best wide receiver in the class.
As a transfer this year, he maintained his four-star status, ranking as the 37th-best overall player and 13th-best wide receiver in the portal.
This season he didn't feature much for the Longhorns, accruing only 137 yards on eight receptions, with two touchdown catches. His last game was the 35-13 victory over Mississippi State on Sept. 28.
Johntay Cook II's farewell message to the Texas community
In addition to the Instagram post, Johntay Cook II penned a short farewell message to his X account for fans and teammates. The statement read:
"Nothing but love for my former teammates at my previous university," Cook tweeted Saturday. "I thank you all for the great competition and memories. Gods plan not mine."
When asked about Cook's departure, coach Steve Sarkisian said:
"We have nothing but respect for him and his family. Wish him the best of luck in his future endeavors. ... It was mutual between the two of us."
Texas is set to play Arizona State on New Year’s Day for the Peach Bowl at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta. The bowl is a quarterfinal for the College Football Playoff. The winner will advance to the semifinals, where they’ll play against the winner of the Rose Bowl between Oregon and Ohio State.
Texas is a 13-point favorite for the Peach Bowl.
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