Further, Key has a reputation as an excellent recruiter. He is No. 2 in 247Sports’ rankings of recruiters for the 2019 class.

Key played at Tech while Collins was a graduate assistant in 1999-2000 and then were on O’Leary’s staff together in 2001 when Collins coached tight ends and Key was a GA. They were together again when Collins coached linebackers at UCF in 2008-09.

Key would be a third assistant on Collins’ staff who was a Tech grad, following running backs coach Tashard Choice and co-defensive coordinator and safeties coach Nathan Burton.

Upon Key’s arrival, presumably following the Crimson Tide’s participation in Monday’s national championship game, Collins’ on-field coaching staff will be complete at 10.