The Louisville Cardinals made a notable move on the recruiting trail with the commitment of four-star athlete Payton Cook. With a massive list of scholarship offers, it’s imperative to note that Cook picked Louisville over a who’s who of top programs.
Payton Cook Heads Home
According to recruiting insider Hayes Fawcett, Cook chose the Cardinals over Michigan, Miami, Tennessee and several other schools.
Cook had a message for Louisville fans after announcing his commitment:
BREAKING: Four-Star ATH Payton Cook has Committed to Louisville, he tells me for @on3recruits
The 6’2 185 ATH from Akron, OH chose the Cardinals over Michigan, Miami, & Tennessee
“L’s up, Cards I’m home”https://t.co/MioijTMXFj pic.twitter.com/JIan6Og0du
— Hayes Fawcett (@Hayesfawcett3) March 27, 2025
The 6’2″, 180-pound two-way player is one of the more versatile recruits in the country.
Louisville is set to add a dynamic player in Cook, who brings value on both sides of the ball.
An Ohio native, Cook reportedly led the state in interceptions last season with 13, though he is projected to play wide receiver at the college level.
Rivals ranks Cook as the No. 20 wide receiver in the 2026 class—an impressive mark for someone who played multiple positions in high school.
Louisville Will Need Payton Cook’s Help
Head coach Jeff Brohm has enjoyed two of his strongest seasons since entering the Power Five ranks in 2017, when he took over at Purdue.
Brohm led Louisville to a 10-win campaign and an ACC Championship Game appearance in his first year with the program. The Cardinals followed that with nine wins in 2024.
Still, reaching the College Football Playoff remains a challenge, even with its expansion to 12 teams, especially for programs with multiple losses.
Cook’s versatility could make a difference once he arrives on campus. With his size, speed, awareness, and overall skill set, he has the tools to thrive at the college level.
If he can help keep Louisville in title contention, it would be a major boost for the program’s long-term outlook.
MORE: Class of 2026 Top 10 Recruits
Either way, the Cardinals are positioned to remain competitive in the ACC alongside Clemson, Miami and others in the coming seasons.
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