He has emerged as one of Jalen Milroe’s go-to targets for Alabama as a wide receiver, but is a new role in the works for sophomore Isaiah Bond?
The native Georgian is showing how explosive he is each week.
RELATED: Alabama WR Isaiah Bond: 2023 Crimson Tide Player Spotlight
Bond wins on the field with his routes, exceptional speed, and hands. He’s made explosive touchdown receptions in multiple games, including one versus Tennessee in a 34-20 victory for Alabama football last week. Bond left the Volunteers’ defensive secondary in the dust on a 46-yard touchdown catch. He shares the team lead with Jermaine Burton for receptions (23), ranks second in yards (360), and is tied for second in touchdowns (three). Bond averages 15.6 yards per catch through eight games.
The 5-foot-11, 182-pounder has blossomed into an impressive player, but is there more to his game?
Nick Saban would like to see more creativity on special teams for the Crimson Tide.
Ga’Quincy “Kool-Aid” McKinstry provided a spark last season on punt returns, but he has not been consistent this year.
RELATED: Alabama WR Isaiah Bond inks multiple NIL opportunities
The Tide has two non-offensive touchdowns from linebackers Chris Braswell and Jihaad Campbell, but it would love for its return game to be involved. Bond spoke to reporters Wednesday to discuss his new role and how the team is working on its bye week.
Bond has embraced the opportunity to return punts.
“I am working on punt returns,” Bond said. “You should be seeing me soon.”
Bond’s message should excite Tide fans, especially with the success he had in high school. He was an incredible athlete at Buford, running away from people on the football field and the track. Jaylen Waddle, a former Alabama standout, was the Tide’s most recent explosive return specialist. The Tide has had game-changers as punt returners; however, we will see if Bond is next.
Click here to follow the Bama Elite Podcast
*Get the BEST Alabama football insider information, message board access, and recruiting coverage today! SIGN UP HERE to unlock our subscriber-only content!*
Stephen M. Smith is the managing editor and senior writer for Touchdown Alabama Magazine. You can “like” him on Facebook or “follow” him on Twitter, via @CoachingMSmith.
