At the NFL Scouting Combine on Friday, wide receiver Isaiah Bond took a moment to reflect on his time at Alabama, making it clear that he holds nothing but respect and appreciation for the program where he spent two seasons. Despite transferring to Texas for his final year of college football, Bond emphasized that his decision was not about leaving Alabama behind but rather about taking the next step in his football journey.
Bond, now representing the Texas Longhorns in Indianapolis, explained his reasoning for transferring last offseason after legendary head coach Nick Saban announced his retirement. When he entered the transfer portal, his sole focus was on Texas, and he wasted no time in making his decision. He committed to head coach Steve Sarkisian on the very first day of his visit to Austin.
“It’s all love for Alabama. At the end of the day, I was there for two years, I fought with my brothers,” Bond said. “I went there for Coach Saban. I have a lot of respect and love for that guy. Going to Texas, it was just the next step. I had a great experience there.”
Though Bond’s final college season was played in a Longhorns uniform, his time at Alabama will always be a defining part of his career. As a key contributor in the Crimson Tide’s offense, he made an impact with his speed, route running, and playmaking ability. During his sophomore season in 2023, he hauled in 48 receptions for 668 yards and four touchdowns, establishing himself as one of the team’s most reliable targets.
One of the most unforgettable moments of his career came in the 2023 Iron Bowl against Auburn. With Alabama trailing 24-20 and just 41 seconds remaining in the game, the Crimson Tide faced a daunting fourth-and-goal situation from the 31-yard line. In a miraculous play that will be remembered in Iron Bowl history, Bond secured a deep pass from quarterback Jalen Milroe in the back left corner of the end zone, stunning the Tigers and giving Alabama a dramatic victory. That win helped propel Alabama to an SEC Championship Game showdown against Georgia, where Bond continued to play a crucial role in the team’s success. Alabama’s strong finish to the season earned them a spot in the College Football Playoff, further cementing Bond’s legacy in Tuscaloosa.
In his lone season at Texas, Bond remained a productive offensive weapon, recording 34 receptions for 540 yards and five touchdowns. He also contributed a rushing touchdown, showcasing his versatility. While his numbers at Texas were slightly lower than his previous season at Alabama, his impact on the field was undeniable. He played a key role in Texas’ offense, helping the Longhorns remain competitive at the highest level.
Now, as Bond prepares for the next phase of his career, he enters the NFL Draft as a promising prospect. According to ESPN draft analyst Mel Kiper Jr., he is ranked as the 10th-best wide receiver in this year’s class. With his speed, hands, and big-game experience, Bond is expected to draw significant interest from NFL teams looking to add a dynamic playmaker to their receiving corps.
As he looks ahead to his professional future, Bond remains grateful for the experiences and lessons he gained at both Alabama and Texas. His journey from Tuscaloosa to Austin and now to the NFL Draft is a testament to his adaptability, work ethic, and determination to succeed at the highest level of the sport.
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