It’s the kind of news that makes a fanbase simultaneously proud and frustrated. Dane Key, the hometown kid from Lexington who stayed home to play for the Wildcats, has been named a team captain at the University of Nebraska.
While it’s a testament to his character and leadership, for Big Blue Nation, it’s impossible not to feel a sting of regret. He should be wearing a captain’s ‘C’ in Kentucky blue. It’s a shame that he isn’t.
A leader in Lincoln
🔴 Ceyair Wright🔴 Marques Buford Jr🔴 Dane Key🔴 DeShon Singleton🔴 Dylan Raiola🔴 Henry Lutovsky pic.twitter.com/mqEBxeje4M
— Nebraska Football (@HuskerFootball) August 23, 2025
Key’s ascension to a leadership role with the Huskers is no surprise. He was always a consummate professional and a talented player during his three years in Lexington. He followed his trusted wide receivers coach, Deikiel Shorts Jr., to Lincoln, seeking a fresh start and a more functional offensive system. He has clearly made an immediate impact, earning the respect of his new teammates and coaches in short order.
The Hometown hero’s frustrating journey
“This is gonna be the breakout year and just the biggest year of my career…” #Huskers@KETVNebraska’s new star WR Dane Key (@DaneKey06) feeling confident heading into this season. pic.twitter.com/ZMbtbQhYx7
— Lauren Michelson (@LaurenMichelson) July 19, 2025
Dane Key gave Kentucky three productive years, becoming a reliable target and a fan favorite. His talent was immense, and he flashed it often. The tragedy of his time in Lexington is that for two of those three years, the offense was mired in dysfunction. Poor offensive line play and questionable scheme decisions kneecapped what should have been a high-flying attack.
Despite the chaos, Key still produced:…