Former Alabama Crimson Tide wide receiver Isaiah Bond announced Sunday that he will transfer to the Texas Longhorns.
When Nick Saban announced his retirement last Wednesday, Bond was the first Alabama player to enter the transfer portal. Bond revealed that Saban’s departure from the program was the primary reason for his decision to move on, but he also acknowledged that it was a business decision.
“Just like the business world, you make the best decision for your company,” Bond said in an interview with ESPN. “My company right now is my draft stock. I feel like I’m putting myself in position to increase that and have better draft stock.”
Alabama transfer wide receiver Isaiah Bond has committed to Texas, which he told ESPN is a “business decision” in the wake of Nick Saban’s retirement. Bond led Alabama in receptions last season with 48 and said Saban’s retirement was “100-percent” the reason for his transfer. pic.twitter.com/k48H1IDnTJ
— Pete Thamel (@PeteThamel) January 14, 2024
Another factor was head coach Steve Sarkisian and quarterback Quinn Ewers.
“He’s a great big-time pocket passer quarterback. He’s a top pick in the draft next year. I’m also going to be a top pick. It’s going to be a good duo,” said Bond.
Bond was the first Alabama starter to announce his intention to transfer to another team. There is speculation that defensive back Caleb Down might also join him soon in the transfer portal after his position coach, Travaris Robinson, decided to take the co-defensive coordinator job with the Georgia Bulldogs on Saturday.
However, as of now, Downs has not entered the transfer portal. The new Alabama head coach, Kalen Deboer, has requested his team to give him a chance before deciding to transfer. So far, Bond is the only starter who has decided to leave the team.
