In a shocking turn of events, former Texas Longhorns wide receiver Johntay Cook II was arrested early Tuesday morning and booked into the Lon Evans Corrections Center in Tarrant County, Texas, on multiple charges. This incident marks a dramatic fall from grace for the once-promising athlete.
Cook, a five-star recruit from DeSoto High School, was a standout player in the 2023 class, boasting 84 receptions for 1,469 yards and 22 touchdowns in his senior year. His commitment to the University of Texas was seen as a significant win for the Longhorns.
However, his collegiate career was marred by challenges. After limited playing time and production—recording only eight catches for 137 yards and two touchdowns in the 2024 season—Cook parted ways with the Texas program in November 2024. Head coach Steve Sarkisian described the departure as “mutual,” wishing Cook well in his future endeavors.
Following his exit from Texas, Cook briefly committed to the University of Washington in December 2024. However, this stint was short-lived, as reports in January 2025 indicated that Cook and Washington had “parted ways” after just a few days.
The details surrounding Cook’s recent arrest remain unclear, and it is unknown whether his departure from these programs is connected to the current charges. This development raises questions about the pressures faced by young athletes and the support systems in place to guide them through challenges both on and off the field.
As the story unfolds, it serves as a stark reminder of the volatility of athletic careers and the importance of comprehensive support for student-athletes navigating the complexities of collegiate sports and personal development.