Alabama WR Isaiah Bond to Enter Transfer Portal

Bond is the first player to enter the portal after Nick Saban’s retirement.

Alabama receiver Isaiah Bond is entering the NCAA transfer portal. The sophomore wideout was the Crimson Tide’s leading pass-catcher in 2023, compiling 48 receptions for 668 yards with four touchdowns. 

Bond, 19, is the first Alabama player to enter the transfer portal since coach Nick Saban announced his retirement. The news was first reported by Nick Kelly of the Tuscaloosa News.

Under NCAA rules, players have a 30-day window to enter the portal after a coaching change. Bond can still return to Alabama if he chooses. However, going into the portal allows other programs to contact him. 

TOUCHDOWN ALABAMA ON 4TH AND A MILE!

UNREAL! pic.twitter.com/rX5XPRsuzV

— CBS Sports (@CBSSports) November 26, 2023

Bond’s 2023 season will surely be best known for his touchdown catch in the back of the end zone from quarterback Jalen Milroe on a fourth-and-31 play in Alabama’s 27–24 win over Auburn in the annual Iron Bowl rivalry matchup. 

Losing Bond would leave Alabama without its starting receivers for next season. Junior wideout Malik Benson also entered the portal and transferred to Florida State, while senior Jermaine Burton declared for the NFL draft.