Isaiah Bond Cleveland Browns Contract Update
The Cleveland Browns have yet to confirm the signing of wide receiver Isaiah Bond, even though the undrafted rookie told fans he has already agreed to join the team.
Bond made his announcement just hours after being cleared of a legal case that had kept him sidelined for months. While his statement sparked excitement among supporters, the Browns are taking a cautious approach, opting to complete their due diligence before making the deal official.
Background: How Legal Troubles Kept Bond Out of the Draft
Isaiah Bond’s journey to the NFL has been anything but straightforward. Before the 2025 NFL Draft, the speedy wideout from the University of Texas was widely projected to be selected in the mid-rounds. Many scouts praised his elite speed, refined route-running, and ability to stretch defenses.
However, Bond’s draft stock plummeted in April after a woman accused him of a non-consensual sexual encounter. Bond voluntarily surrendered to Frisco Police in Texas on a sexual assault warrant and was released on a $25,000 bond while awaiting legal proceedings.
The case moved to a Collin County grand jury, which on Thursday, August 14, decided to issue a no-bill — declining to file charges due to insufficient evidence. This decision legally cleared Bond to sign with any NFL team as an undrafted free agent.
Bond’s Statement Following Clearance
Shortly after the grand jury decision, Bond took to social media and issued a formal press statement expressing gratitude toward the Cleveland Browns for giving him what he described as a “second chance.”
“First and foremost, I want to express my deepest gratitude to the Cleveland Browns for believing in me and allowing me the opportunity to continue my career in the NFL,” Bond said. “Football has been my passion since I was six years old, and playing at this level is a blessing I will never take for granted.
I understand that playing in the NFL is a privilege, and I’m thankful every day to live my childhood dream. My focus is on learning the offense, building strong relationships with my teammates, and contributing to the Cleveland community. I’m determined to prove the Browns organization and everyone who believes in me right for putting their trust in me.”
Why the Browns Are Proceeding with Caution
Despite Bond’s public declaration, the Browns have not yet filed official paperwork confirming his signing. According to Mary Kay Cabot of Cleveland.com, team officials are still conducting a thorough review of Bond’s background and circumstances.
“A source said the Browns, who liked Bond throughout the 2025 pre-draft process and have been monitoring him since, are still doing some diligence on the speedy wideout before a final decision is made,” Cabot reported.
This caution comes during a turbulent offseason for the Browns, marked by several off-field incidents. Rookie running back Quinshon Judkins was involved in a domestic violence allegation earlier this year. While prosecutors declined to press charges, he remains unsigned and away from team activities.
Additionally, star defensive end Myles Garrett and rookie quarterback Shedeur Sanders made headlines after being cited for speeding violations.
On-Field Fit: What Isaiah Bond Brings to Cleveland
From a purely football standpoint, Isaiah Bond’s potential arrival addresses a glaring need in the Browns’ roster. Cleveland did not select a wide receiver in the 2025 NFL Draft, leaving the position thin in terms of speed and explosive playmaking.
Bond’s athletic profile is eye-catching:
- 40-yard dash: 4.39 seconds at the NFL Scouting Combine
- Versatility: Can line up outside or in the slot
- Route-running: Fluid and efficient with good separation ability
- Hands: Reliable in contested catch situations
NFL.com analyst Lance Zierlein described Bond as “fluid, fast, and untapped,” suggesting that he was often used as a decoy at Texas but has the tools to become a productive NFL receiver. Zierlein recommended utilizing Bond on shallow crossers, deep digs, and quick-game throws — plays that could maximize his yards-after-catch potential.
If Cleveland finalizes the deal, Bond will join a receiver group featuring Jerry Jeudy, Cedric Tillman, and other young pass-catchers competing for spots on the 53-man roster.
What Happens Next?
The Browns’ front office is expected to complete its review in the coming days. If Bond passes all evaluations, he could join training camp immediately and participate in the team’s preseason schedule.
For Bond, the opportunity is about more than just football — it’s a chance to rebuild his career and reputation following months of uncertainty. For the Browns, it’s a calculated gamble that could result in a low-cost, high-upside addition to their offense.
Related Reading:
