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3-star DL DeAndre Cook commits to Penn State: 'It came down to a gut feeling'

Chad Simmons updated head shotby:Chad Simmons•06/30/23•

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Screen Shot 2023-06-30 at 10.28.49 AM
(Photo Courtesy of DeAndre Cook)

Washington (D.C.) Friendship Collegiate Academy three-star defensive lineman DeAndre Cook is staying on the East Coast.

On Friday, the talented 6-foot-3, 255-pounder chose Penn State over North Carolina and a handful of other programs. He took official visits to both schools, but there was just something special in Happy Valley he couldn’t pass up.

“It came down to a gut feeling, and I just see myself in the Penn State program,” he told On3. “Me and my family really liked the atmosphere. It came down to a split decision, and it was very close because I love people at both places. But Penn State just felt right, and when I was there I was like, ‘Damn, I want to be here. Penn State is where I want to be.'”

Deion Barnes led the way in recruiting DeAndre Cook

The Nittany Lions have had success in the DMV in recent years, and that continues with Cook. Former PSU linebacker Deion Barnes, who now coaches the defensive line at his alma mater, was the primary recruiter for Cook.

The two connected even before Cook received an offer, and their relationship only grew from there.

“Coach Barnes is my guy,” he said. “Even before they offered me, he was recruiting me and getting to know me. We went back and forth for a while and we have built a good relationship. He is a great person, and I really like being around him. I fully trust him, and I think we can do something special together.”

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Official visit helped seal the deal

Cook had been on campus before his official visit, but this last trip to Happy Valley made him realize that it was home.

“I honestly knew I wanted to be at Penn State when I first stepped on campus for my official visit,” he said. “It was just different. It feels great to be committed, and I am so excited to be committed to Penn State. I would go play right now if I could. I love the people, and I can’t wait to be there.”

… I love the atmosphere and I love the fan base. It is one big family. Everyone works together at Penn State, and everybody is cool with each other.”