Alabama WR Transfers to Texas in Wake of Nick Saban’s Retirement, per Report

He led the team in catches this past season.

Alabama standout wide receiver Isaiah Bond is transferring to Texas, according to ESPN’s Pete Thamel. Bond told ESPN that Nick Saban’s retirement was 100% the reason for his departure. 

“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.”

The 19-year-old led the Tide in catches this past season at 48—with four of them being for touchdowns—and tallied 668 receiving yards to boot. He joins a Longhorns team that made a College Football Playoff appearance this past season but were dispelled in the Sugar Bowl against Washington. 

Alabama wide receiver Isaiah Bond (17) runs for a touchdown against Georgia in the fourth quarter at Mercedes-Benz Stadium :: Brett Davis/USA TODAY Sports

Quarterback Quinn Ewers, who was named second-team All-Big 12, will be returning for Texas in 2024 and will provide steady leadership for Bond. 

“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.”