Nebraska Lands Star Transfer WR Dane Key, Bolstering Offensive Firepower

Nebraska football has made a significant splash in the transfer portal, securing a commitment from Kentucky wide receiver Dane Key. The 6-foot-3, 210-pound standout chose the Huskers over high-profile programs like Georgia and Mississippi State, providing Nebraska with a proven playmaker to anchor their receiving corps.

Key brings an impressive résumé to Lincoln, boasting nearly 2,000 career receiving yards and a reputation as a reliable No. 1 receiver. With one year of eligibility remaining, he fills a critical void left by the graduation of Jahmal Banks and Isaiah Neyor, who were pivotal to Nebraska’s passing attack.

A Dynamic Duo in the Making

Key will join forces with another transfer portal addition, Nyziah Hunter. The sophomore-to-be from California adds size and athleticism to Nebraska’s receiver room, giving the Huskers two physically imposing targets at 6-foot-2 and 6-foot-3, respectively.

Together, Key and Hunter are expected to elevate Nebraska’s passing game under offensive coordinator Dana Holgorsen, whose hiring brought a fresh vision to the Huskers’ offense.

A Familiar Face in the Coaching Staff

Key’s decision to transfer to Nebraska was likely influenced by wide receivers coach Daikiel Shorts, who coached him at Kentucky and joined the Huskers’ staff under Holgorsen. Shorts was Holgorsen’s top coaching hire this offseason, and his familiarity with Key’s skill set should ensure a smooth transition to Nebraska’s offensive scheme.

A Proven Performer

During his time at Kentucky, Key consistently delivered. Over 38 games, he amassed 126 receptions for 1,870 yards and 14 touchdowns. His production remained steady even as the Wildcats’ offense struggled, with the team averaging just 184 passing yards per game in 2024.

Key’s best seasons came as a freshman and sophomore, when he recorded a combined 79 catches for 1,155 yards and 12 touchdowns. Despite Kentucky’s struggles in 2024, Key still managed 47 receptions for 715 yards and two touchdowns.

From Lexington to Lincoln

The Lexington, Kentucky native grew up in a football family, with his father, Donte’ Key, playing linebacker for the Wildcats. Staying home for college was a natural choice for Key, who had the support of his family and high school teammates. However, after Kentucky’s disappointing 4-8 season in 2024, Key sought a fresh start to maximize his potential and showcase his NFL aspirations.

In transferring to Nebraska, Key will catch passes from his fourth starting quarterback in as many seasons. The Huskers’ offense has been bolstered by several other transfer additions, including backup quarterback Marcos Davila from Purdue.

A New Chapter

Dane Key’s commitment marks a significant win for Nebraska’s recruiting efforts and reinforces the program’s ambition to compete at the highest level. As the Huskers prepare for the 2025 season, Key’s arrival promises to bring leadership, experience, and dynamic playmaking to an offense looking to make its mark in the Big Ten.

With Key in the fold, Nebraska fans have every reason to be optimistic about the team’s offensive potential next season.