Although Kentucky fans will have many a gift to unwrap this Christmas, Tuesday’s transfer portal news may feel more like a lump of coal.
Standout former Wildcat receiver Dane Key has transferred to Nebraska, per the player’s personal Twitter account.
Per On3’s 2022 recruiting rankings, Key was the 266th ranked prospect in the 2022 class. He was the 45th ranked receiver in the country and the top-overall prospect in the state of Kentucky.
He’s been a standout for Kentucky opposite the now-transferred Barion Brown. Through his three seasons with the Wildcats, the 6’2″ wideout totaled 126 receptions for 1,870 yards and 14 touchdowns.
Related: Incoming transfer portal tracker for Kentucky football
Key was ranked as On3’s 9th best transfer portal player in the country and 6th ranked wide receiver overall.
The Wildcats have already pounced on the open market to replace their departing receiving talent, adding J.J. Hester from Oklahoma and Kendrick Law from Alabama.
Kentucky also picked up a new quarterback, adding Zach Calzada from Incarnate Word to bridge the gap while Cutter Boley continues to develop.
Regardless of who lines up for the Wildcats next year, it will be a new-look Kentucky football squad.