Former Texas, Washington WR Johntay Cook II Arrested on Theft Charges

FORT WORTH, Texas — Former University of Texas and University of Washington wide receiver Johntay Cook II was arrested Tuesday on charges of property theft and interference with public duties, according to Fort Worth police records. The 20-year-old is being held at the Lon Evans Correctional Center.

Cook, a former five-star recruit and top-40 prospect in the 2023 class, was arrested following an incident at a smoke shop in the 2400 block of Meacham Boulevard. Police responded to a theft call around 7:15 a.m. after Cook allegedly attempted to make a purchase with a declined card and later took a key fob for the caller’s vehicle, according to a preliminary police report.

Cook faces one count of theft with a value between $100 and $750, a Class B misdemeanor, and one count of interfering with public duties. It is unclear whether he has legal representation.

The arrest comes after a tumultuous year for Cook, who began his college football career at Texas. He played two seasons with the Longhorns, recording 136 receiving yards as a true freshman in 2023 and eight catches for 137 yards and two touchdowns in 2024. However, he and the Longhorns mutually parted ways midway through the 2024 season, and he entered the transfer portal.

Cook briefly transferred to Washington, becoming the Huskies’ only wide receiver addition via the transfer portal. However, he and head coach Jedd Fisch decided to part ways shortly after his arrival. Cook re-entered the transfer portal on Jan. 14, 2025.

Cook’s football career has been marked by high expectations. As a standout at DeSoto High School in Texas, he was named The Dallas Morning News’ Offensive Player of the Year in 2022. His arrest raises questions about his future in college football as he remains in Tarrant County custody.