Why did Isaiah Bond leave Alabama? A look at Texas star’s reasoning behind Crimson Tide exit

The departure of Isaiah Bond from Alabama following Nick Saban’s retirement made headlines in January. Bond, who finished his second year at the University of Alabama, was the first player from Alabama to enter the transfer portal after news of Saban's retirement.

Initially, he was planning to stay for another year at Alabama, but he changed his mind and decided to play for Steve Sarkisian in Texas. Sarkisian had tried to recruit him out of high school.

Why did Isaiah Bond leave Alabama?

Isaiah Bond left Alabama to improve his draft stock. He believes at Texas he will get more playing time and the opportunity to showcase his skillsets in front of scouts and NFL coaches.

His departure from Alabama raised plenty of eyebrows in college football circles. The WR, who led the Crimson Tide in catches last season, revealed the exact reason behind his decision to transfer to Texas.

“One hundred percent. That was the decision why I left,” Bond told ESPN [referring to Saban’s retirement]. "Just like the business world, you make the best decision for your company. 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 finished the 2023 college football season with 48 catches, 668 yards, and four touchdowns to his name. Aligning himself with Texas head coach Steve Sarkisian and wide receivers coach Chris Jackson, a veteran with five years of NFL experience, was crucial for his career path, Bond said.

“It was really a business decision. I'm not taking any hatred in my heart. Nothing personal. I'm going to do what's best for me and my family.”

In his new role, Bond is set to become a key target for Texas quarterback Quinn Ewers, aiming to boost his profile ahead of the NFL draft. About his upcoming partnership with Ewers, the Georgia native said:

"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."

Only time will tell whether Isaiah Bond will live up to his self-declared expectations at Texas or regret his decision to leave one of the best football programs in the country.