AUSTIN, Texas — Sophomore wide receiver Johntay Cook is no longer a member of the Texas Longhorns.
Head Coach Steve Sarkisian confirmed Cook's exit from the team on Thursday. The specifics of Cook's departure are unknown, but Sarkisian said the decision was "mutual."
"We have nothing but respect for he and his family," Sarkisian said during a videoconference on Thursday. "We wish him the best of luck in his future endeavors."
Cook signed with the Longhorns as a five-star recruit in 2023, joining as a member of a highly-touted recruiting class that also included quarterback Arch Manning, running backs CJ Baxter and Tre Wisner, linebacker Anthony Hill Jr. and defensive back Malik Muhammad.
While his fellow 2023 recruits have seen consistent playing time this season, Cook had begun to be phased out in recent weeks following the emergence of true freshman Ryan Wingo. His last appearance came against Oklahoma on Oct. 12 and his last recorded catch came against Mississippi State on Sept. 28.
Cook had eight receptions for 137 yards and two touchdowns this season, after having an almost identical eight receptions for 136 yards in his true freshman season in 2023.
