Illinois recently offered 2020 offensive tackle Mason Cook from Phenix City (Ala.) Central. Cook followed up the offer with an unofficial visit to the Champaign campus on Tuesday.
Orange and Blue News spoke to Cook about the visit, where the Illini stand in his recruitment, and more.
Illinois just offered Cook in mid-May and quickly set up a campus visit.
On his visit, Cook said he had breakfast at his hotel with the Illini coaches, then took a campus tour.
"When I got there, everybody came out to meet me like there was a big-time recruiting coming to town," Cook said.
One of the highlights of the visit, according to Cook, was a tour through the new Football Performance Center that opens this later this summer.
"That's one thing that really stood out to me," Cook said. "They put a lot of athletes into taking care of the players."
Illinois offensive line coach Bob McClain is selling Cook on his fit for the spread attack that Illinois uses. He's a long athlete who can move, and can play either guard or tackle at the next level.
"They say they like long, lean guys," Cook said. "They love the way I get downfield and pick up linebackers, stuff bigger guys couldnt do as well."
McClain spent some time with Cook showing the scheme on film, and he's building a good relationship with McClain and the other coaches on the staff.
"We spent an hour sitting in the film room going over who they do things," Cook said. "Me and (McC;ain) have a strong relationship. The interaction with him is amazing. "
So far, McClain said he's getting the most attention from Illinois and Arkansas State, and Georgia State wants him to visit. Other Power 5 schools are in contact, however, including Louisville, Mississippi State, and South Carolina.
Look for Cook to make a return trip to Illinois for an official visit at some point.
"I feel like I would be a good match with them,." Cook said about the Illini. "With the spread offense, I feel like I would fit well. "
Cook plans to make his final college choice after the high school football season this fall.
