We tell you everything you need to know about the 2024 Cook High School football team in this preview, including roster changes and what fans can expect from the Hornets this season.
2023 Stats
- Overall Record: 11-3
- Points Scored: 402
- Points Allowed: 237
Key Losses
The Hornets must replace starting quarterback Drew Folsom, who really bloomed last year, throwing for 2,513 yards and 25 touchdowns while leading the Hornets to an 11-win season. He leaves as Cook’s all-time leading passer, surpassing the record that was previously held by his older brother, Zach Folsom.
Cook will also miss Folsom’s favorite receiver target as wideout Ny’Shaun Wallace has graduated. The standout leaves as Cook’s all-time leading receiver, and his impact as a special teams performer for the Hornets will be missed too.
Cook will have to replace a key member of the offensive line with the departure of tackle Kyshawn Pitts.
Who’s Back
Cook will have MJ Tippins back, and head coach Byron Slack said that the junior will be expected to “foot the bill at QB” this year.
Two other juniors returning to the offense are offensive tackle Kyle Terrell and wide receiver Jacarre Johnson.
Slack said his top three returners on defense in 2024 are senior outside linebacker Tereon Jones, sophomore inside linebacker Bralyn Bennett, and freshman Jaiden Knight, who will move to inside linebacker.
Cook welcomes back five-star punter Brooks Moore, one of the best in the state at his position. Kohl’s has him ranked as the No. 1 punter for the Class of 2026. Moore averaged an incredible 42.9 yards per punt last season for the Hornets.
What to Expect
Cook raised the bar in 2023 by advancing to the Class 2A state semifinals. This year they move to a new region with all new region opponents, including defending state champion Pierce County.
Slack said his team is ready for the new challenge and that a tough non-region schedule should have them prepared for their region schedule.
“We are focusing on competing with these great teams that we have been aligned with,” he said.
The Hornets will have plenty of youth on their team, but Slack said that’s not a bad thing.
“We will be very young, but that is a good thing in my book,” Slack said. “We are working to take that next step with our program.”
Prediction
Cook will compete for the title in their new region. Look for a season with 10 or more wins.
Game to Watch
Oct. 4 region opener at Pierce County
