SAD NEWS: The Texas Longhorns have confirmed the departure of another top star, wide receiver Johntay Cook II. This decision comes after two seasons with the program, during which Cook, a former five-star recruit, struggled to find consistent playing time.
### Details of the Departure
– **Mutual Decision**: Head coach Steve Sarkisian described the parting as “mutual,” expressing respect for Cook and his family while wishing him well in future endeavors [[1]](https://www.burntorangenation.com/2024/11/7/24289339/johntay-cook-departure-texas-longhorns-meaning-ryan-wingo).
– **Performance Decline**: Cook’s usage significantly decreased during the 2024 season, particularly after a dropped touchdown pass against Mississippi State. His last catch was recorded on September 28, and he did not play in subsequent games against Oklahoma and others [[2]](https://www.si.com/college/texas/news/johntay-cook-ii-confirms-departure-from-texas-longhorns-01jc3k7fx0cb)[[3]](https://bleacherreport.com/articles/10142570-johntay-cook-ii-leaves-texas-wr-is-former-5-star-prospect).
– **Career Stats**: Over his time with the Longhorns, Cook accumulated 16 receptions for 273 yards and two touchdowns, a disappointing return for a player of his caliber [[1]](https://www.burntorangenation.com/2024/11/7/24289339/johntay-cook-departure-texas-longhorns-meaning-ryan-wingo)[[2]](https://www.si.com/college/texas/news/johntay-cook-ii-confirms-departure-from-texas-longhorns-01jc3k7fx0cb).
### Implications for the Team
– **Roster Changes**: Cook’s exit adds to the roster changes Texas has experienced this season, raising questions about the depth and future of the wide receiver corps, especially with other potential departures looming [[1]](https://www.burntorangenation.com/2024/11/7/24289339/johntay-cook-departure-texas-longhorns-meaning-ryan-wingo).
– **Future Opportunities**: Given his five-star status and previous production, Cook is expected to attract interest in the transfer portal, where he may find a more prominent role in another program [[3]](https://bleacherreport.com/articles/10142570-johntay-cook-ii-leaves-texas-wr-is-former-5-star-prospect).
This departure marks a significant moment for the Longhorns as they navigate the challenges of maintaining a competitive roster while dealing with the realities of player movement in college football.
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Learn more:
1. [What WR Johntay Cook’s departure means for Texas – Burnt Orange Nation](https://www.burntorangenation.com/2024/11/7/24289339/johntay-cook-departure-texas-longhorns-meaning-ryan-wingo)
2. [Johntay Cook II Confirms Departure From Texas Longhorns](https://www.si.com/college/texas/news/johntay-cook-ii-confirms-departure-from-texas-longhorns-01jc3k7fx0cb)
3. [Johntay Cook II Leaves Texas; WR Is Former 5-Star Prospect | News, Scores, Highlights, Stats, and Rumors | Bleacher Report](https://bleacherreport.com/articles/10142570-johntay-cook-ii-leaves-texas-wr-is-former-5-star-prospect)
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