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Mississippi State Football Loses a Legend: Johnie Cooks Passes Away
Zach Arnett Named Interim Head Coach
Starkville, MS
The Mississippi State football family is mourning the loss of one of its legends, Johnie Cooks. Cooks, who played for the Bulldogs from 1972 to 1975, passed away on Tuesday at the age of 69. Cooks was a standout defensive back for Mississippi State, earning All-SEC honors in 1974 and 1975. He was also a member of the Bulldogs' 1974 SEC championship team. After his playing career, Cooks went on to coach at several levels, including stints as the defensive coordinator at Mississippi State and the head coach at Delta State. In a statement, Mississippi State athletic director John Cohen said, "Johnie Cooks was a true Bulldog legend, both on and off the field. He was a great player, a great coach, and a great man. He will be deeply missed by the entire Bulldog family." Mississippi State football coach Zach Arnett has been named the interim head coach following the passing of Mike Leach. Arnett, who has been the Bulldogs' defensive coordinator since 2020, is a proven leader who has helped Mississippi State to back-to-back bowl victories. Arnett said, "I am honored to be named the interim head coach of Mississippi State football. This is a difficult time for our program, but I know that we will come together and honor Coach Leach's legacy." Arnett will lead the Bulldogs in their upcoming bowl game against Illinois. 
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