D'Vontae Key

I am pleased to provide this character reference for D’Vontae Key as he continues to pursue opportunities in professional football.

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In my work representing and managing athletes, I have learned that evaluating a player requires looking well beyond film, testing numbers, and physical ability. Talent may create an opportunity, but character, communication, adaptability, professionalism, and the willingness to continue working are often what determine what an athlete does with that opportunity.

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D’Vontae has already demonstrated a level of commitment to football that deserves recognition. He earned a full athletic scholarship to Missouri State University, spent five years within a Division I football program, completed his degree in Public Relations with a minor in Marketing, and then continued pursuing the game professionally rather than assuming there would be an easy or immediate path forward.

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His journey has already required him to adapt to very different environments. He transitioned from collegiate football to The Arena League with the Ozarks Lunkers and then accepted the challenge of traveling overseas to compete for Iron Mask in France. Moving into international football requires more than athletic ability. A player has to adjust to a new team, coaching staff, culture, environment, and way of life while still being expected to perform. D’Vontae's willingness to do that says a great deal about both his commitment to his career and his adaptability.

One of the qualities I particularly appreciate about D’Vontae is his ability to communicate and connect with people. He is personable, creative, outgoing, and comfortable interacting with different personalities and backgrounds. At the same time, he has been candid about the areas in which he wants to continue improving. I value athletes who can recognize that development does not stop when they become professionals.

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D’Vontae also understands that his value to a football organization is not limited to one position. While he is primarily a wide receiver, he brings experience as a kick returner, punt returner, gunner, and special-teams contributor. He understands the importance of finding ways to contribute and making himself useful to a roster.

What I believe D’Vontae needs now is an opportunity to demonstrate what he can do.

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He is still a young professional player, but he already has NCAA Division I, arena, and international experience behind him. He has remained healthy, continued competing, and shown a willingness to travel wherever football presents an opportunity. He has also expressed a genuine interest in building a career and platform that extends beyond himself, particularly through work benefiting children and communities affected by poverty, hunger, and homelessness.

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I am comfortable putting my name behind D’Vontae because I believe he will represent himself, his team, and those associated with him professionally. He is determined, personable, versatile, and hungry for his next opportunity.

I hope an organization will give him the chance to earn it.

 

Sincerely,

 

Dr. Brandy Runyan
Founder / CEO / Agent
Black Diamond Sport & Entertainment Group, LLC