'Business decision' - Alabama WR Isaiah Bond commits to Texas - ESPN

Alabama transfer wide receiver Isaiah Bond has committed to Texas, which he called a «business decision» in the wake of coach Nick Saban's retirement.

«Just like the business world, you make the best decision for your company,» Bond told ESPN in a phone interview Sunday. «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.»

Bond, who just completed his sophomore year, visited Texas this weekend and committed to the staff during the visit.

Bond was the first Alabama player to enter the NCAA transfer portal upon Saban's retirement. He will play for Steve Sarkisian, a former Alabama offensive coordinator who led Texas to the College Football Playoff in his third season in Austin.

Bond said his reason for leaving Alabama was directly tied to Saban's retirement. He had committed to stay another year and then reversed course after the sudden announcement.

«One hundred percent,» he said. «That was the decision why I left.»

Bond said new Alabama coach Kalen DeBoer reached out and that he didn't get back to him. Bond said Sarkisian recruited him hard to Texas out of high school and they regained that connection quickly this weekend. He said Sarkisian, who is Texas' offensive playcaller, is one of the best offensive minds in college football.

«I like the whole package that comes with it,» Bond said of Texas. «Great quarterback, they have a great offensive line. I felt like it was a great spot for me to come to.»

Bond led Alabama in catches this season and will be one of Texas quarterback Quinn Ewers' primary targets in 2024. Bond was an ESPN top-100 recruit who finished this season with 48 catches, 668 yards and four receiving touchdowns.

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