The Buffalo Bills are currently eyeing Texas wide receiver Isaiah Bond during their preparations for the NFL Draft—a potential addition that could inject fresh energy into their receiving corps. With two second-round picks at their disposal, #56 and #62, the Bills find themselves in a prime position to scoop up Bond, especially considering the missed opportunity of selecting Xavier Worthy in last year’s draft. Although there’s a possibility Bond could slip to their fourth-round pick at #109, the smart money is on him being off the board by that time.
So, what makes Isaiah Bond a sensible target for Buffalo? For starters, his play style is electrifying, characterized by jaw-dropping speed and the ability to exploit defensive angles. This makes him a potential game-changer right from the outset, with the ability to contribute splash plays as a rookie and potentially secure a full-time role in Year 2.
Despite a tough 2024 season, where he recorded just 540 receiving yards for Alabama—partly due to an ankle injury sustained against Oklahoma in Week 7—Bond’s foundational skills remain enticing. His stats might not paint the whole picture, especially since he faced challenges during his last season. However, his speed is undeniable, and while he clocked in at a 4.39 at the NFL Combine, it doesn’t fully convey his on-field explosiveness.
One aspect that stands out from his game tape is Bond’s reliance on body catching rather than showcasing strong hands—an indication that he might not be the most natural receiver just yet. This raises some red flags regarding his ability to create separation or break tackles after the catch; he recorded only 17 missed tackles throughout his entire college career, a stat that suggests he may struggle against the more physical secondaries of the NFL.
Yet, despite these concerns, Bond showed promise during clutch situations at Alabama, often being called upon to make critical fourth-down grabs. This highlights his potential as a trusted target in high-pressure moments.
Ultimately, while Bond is currently viewed as a Round 3 to Round 4 prospect due to his rawness, his game-breaking speed and ability to stretch the field should make him an intriguing selection for the Bills. If the team plays their cards right, Bond could be the spark they need to bolster their offensive attack.
