Ad Disclosure
Kentucky spent Wednesday signing new high school recruits for its 2025 recruiting class. While that process was underway, one of the best players on the current roster was making plans to leave.
Dane Key, the Wildcats’ leading wide receiver, announced his plans to enter the transfer portal on Instagram. The Lexington native led the Wildcats in receptions and receiving yards in 2024.
“I am incredibly grateful to the University of Kentucky for the opportunity to be a part of such an amazing program and community,” wrote Key. “The experiences, memories, and relationships I’ve built here will always hold a special place in my heart.”
Key was originally rated as a 4-star wide receiver according to the 247Sports Composite ranking. Key was the No. 1 prospect out of Kentucky and the No. 38 WR overall in the 2022 class. He starred for Frederick Douglass High School in Lexington, and keeping the athlete in town was seen as a huge accomplishment for the Wildcats back then.
“I want to thank my coaches, teammates, and the entire Kentucky staff for their support and belief in me throughout my time here,” Key said.
Through 3 seasons in Lexington, Key caught 126 passes for 1,870 yards and 14 touchdowns. Key will now spend his senior season playing elsewhere.
“Most importantly, I want to thank God for guiding me on this journey and blessing me with the opportunity to grow both as an athlete and individual. After much prayer and reflection, I have made the decision to enter the transfer portal for my final year,” the wideout stated in conclusion.
The transfer portal officially opens on Monday and will remain open until Dec. 28.
View this post on Instagram
Sports betting is live in Kentucky! Check out SDS for the top KY sports betting promos!
Bryce Lazenby covers college football for Saturday Down South. A Nashville native, his previous stops include FanSided, Dimers, and The Leaf-Chronicle.
