Jamil Ferrer | Feb 9, 2026
Former FIU Quarterback Keyone Jenkins puts his paws down as he prepares to become a knight.
Last month the former FIU quarterback announced on social media that he transferred from FIU to UCF. Transitioning from C-USA to the BIG12 gives Jenkins the opportunity to prove himself against tougher opponents.
Keyone is leaving FIU with 34 games played, 6,721 passing yards, 42 passing touchdowns, 13 rushing touchdowns and 42 interceptions with a 60.7% completion percentage.
The FIU breakout star has had many accomplishments over the years as their standout QB—including, 2025 Maxwell Award Watch List, C-USA Preseason Offensive Player of the Year, C-USA Offensive Player of the Week and 2nd-most single season TD’s (22) in FIU history.
What Jenkins brings to the table for UCF is a dual-threat quarterback with great scramble mobility and throwing on the run, while also being known to make big-plays and deep passes.
This gives UCF the experience they need in the quarterback room after coming off a 5-7 season. It allows UCF Head Coach Scott Frost to reset the offense, improve their passing game, and worry less about not having a clear QB.
As for FIU, losing a locker room leader like Keyone causes them to have to rebuild their program, yet it allows Head Coach Willie Simmons the flexibility to build a new offense.
Unfortunately, Keyone’s QB1 spot isn’t locked in just yet, as he’s battling former James Madison University Quarterback Alonza Barnett III for the spot.
Barnett III heads to UCF with 30 games played, 5,433 passing yards, 49 passing touchdowns and 13 interceptions on a 58.8% completion rate.
If we’re looking at stats, Keyone beats Barnett III in total passing yards and completion, yet has more games played and interceptions.
Overall, whether Keyone becomes the Knights QB1 is yet to be determined but what’s for sure is that UCF is getting an experienced quarterback who’s able to bring leadership to the team, hoping to lead to success in the upcoming season.
Cover photo via UCF Athletics
