EXCLUSIVE: Caleb Cook dishes on transfer to USF

via @C_Cook_78/Instagram

When Caleb Cook officially entered his name into the NCAA Transfer Portal, he marked the departure of the Eagles’ entire starting offensive line from the 2025 season. And shortly after his initial announcement, Cook committed to the University of South Florida and reunited with former Eagles’ cornerback Ayden Jackson.

While the All-Sun Belt First-Team selection is no longer on the Georgia Southern roster, he looks back on his five years in Statesboro fondly. Reuniting with a teammate of multiple years simply reinforced that Cook formed lifelong relationships during his time with the Eagles.

“Words can’t describe how thankful I am for the city of Statesboro and Georgia Southern,” Cook said of his time as an Eagle. “These past few years in (Statesboro) molded me into a man and taught me some life lessons that I will never forget.”

Upon his arrivale in the Sunshine State, Cook was immediately enamored with the scenery that litters the Florida coastline. Of course, his hours-long conversations with the Bulls’ new coaching staff was another attractive factor.

“The visit was amazing,” Cook said. “I talked to the coaches and walked through downtown Tampa. The city of Tampa, along with the coaching staff and the success the last few seasons is what stood out the most.”

While Cook was an elite-level tackle during his time in Statesboro, he was warned by the South Florida staff that he would not simply be guaranteed a starting spot. He is, however, fired up for the opportunity to compete for a spot along the team’s offensive line.

“They told me about how much I could help the offense,” Cook said. “But at the end of the day, I already know I have to earn whatever spot I get.”

After spending five years with Georgia Southern, Cook will only have one year of eligibility remaining once he arrives in Tampa.