
KeyBank has announced a new partnership with Jeremiah Smith, standout wide receiver for The Ohio State Buckeyes and one of the most promising talents in college football. This collaboration reflects KeyBank’s effort to strengthen its community ties in Ohio while engaging younger audiences through shared commitments to education, empowerment, and social impact.
The initiative will debut with a digital-first campaign titled “The KeyBank Financial Playbook”, which blends football-inspired storytelling with practical financial education. By combining Smith’s rising athletic profile with KeyBank’s focus on financial well-being, the campaign aims to inspire and equip younger audiences and sports fans across Ohio and beyond.
Smith, currently a sophomore at The Ohio State University, has already broken multiple freshman records and is widely seen as both a future Heisman candidate and a likely first-round NFL draft pick. Alongside his athletic accomplishments, he brings a growing social media following and a strong personal brand.
“Jeremiah Smith represents more than athletic excellence—he’s a role model for young people, a champion of education, and a believer in the strength of community,” said Patty Jurca, KeyBank’s Chief Brand Officer. “His values align closely with KeyBank’s mission to help clients, colleagues, and communities thrive.”
As part of the agreement, KeyBank will hold exclusive rights to Smith’s name, image, and likeness within the banking sector, while also partnering with him to support charitable programs.
“For me, this partnership is about making an impact beyond football,” Smith said. “Financial literacy is crucial for students and families, and KeyBank has been a trusted leader in this space for years. Together, we want to provide resources that uplift communities in Ohio and beyond.”
“Jeremiah’s voice carries influence well beyond the field,” added Lara DeLeone, KeyBank Central Ohio Market President. “We’re excited to collaborate with him in opening new opportunities for both our customers and the communities we serve.”
The initiative will debut with a digital-first campaign titled “The KeyBank Financial Playbook”, which blends football-inspired storytelling with practical financial education. By combining Smith’s rising athletic profile with KeyBank’s focus on financial well-being, the campaign aims to inspire and equip younger audiences and sports fans across Ohio and beyond.
Smith, currently a sophomore at The Ohio State University, has already broken multiple freshman records and is widely seen as both a future Heisman candidate and a likely first-round NFL draft pick. Alongside his athletic accomplishments, he brings a growing social media following and a strong personal brand.
“Jeremiah Smith represents more than athletic excellence—he’s a role model for young people, a champion of education, and a believer in the strength of community,” said Patty Jurca, KeyBank’s Chief Brand Officer. “His values align closely with KeyBank’s mission to help clients, colleagues, and communities thrive.”
As part of the agreement, KeyBank will hold exclusive rights to Smith’s name, image, and likeness within the banking sector, while also partnering with him to support charitable programs.
“For me, this partnership is about making an impact beyond football,” Smith said. “Financial literacy is crucial for students and families, and KeyBank has been a trusted leader in this space for years. Together, we want to provide resources that uplift communities in Ohio and beyond.”
“Jeremiah’s voice carries influence well beyond the field,” added Lara DeLeone, KeyBank Central Ohio Market President. “We’re excited to collaborate with him in opening new opportunities for both our customers and the communities we serve.”