Browns Sign UDFA Isaiah Bond Amidst Legal Battle

The Cleveland Browns have injected fresh talent into their receiving corps by signing WR Isaiah Bond, an intriguing addition with promising potential. In a corresponding roster move to make room for the young wide receiver, the team waived long snapper Brent Matiscik. The Browns made a bold statement on Monday, inking Bond to a fully guaranteed three-year, $3.018 million contract—an unprecedented commitment for an undrafted free agent.

This deal is particularly noteworthy because it guarantees Bond ten times more money than any other undrafted free agent from the 2025 class. The considerable investment underscores the Browns’ strong belief in Bond’s capabilities and his potential future contributions to the team.

Bond, listed at 5-foot-11 and weighing 180 pounds, enters the NFL as an undrafted rookie eager to prove his worth. His college career, split between stints at Alabama and Texas, showcased his ability to make plays. Across 41 collegiate appearances, he recorded 99 receptions for 1,428 yards and 10 touchdowns. Browns fans can expect to see Bond sporting No. 81 as he takes the field, hoping to become a valuable target in the team’s passing attack.

Browns EVP of Football Operations and General Manager Andrew Berry shed light on the team’s decision to sign Bond, emphasizing the extensive evaluation process. “We’ve spent much of the last calendar year getting to know Isaiah as a player and professional and much of the last four months gaining a full understanding of his legal situation,” Berry stated.

Berry further detailed the team’s investigation into the legal matter surrounding Bond’s sexual assault charge, highlighting their dedication to due diligence: “On the legal side, we have done extensive research that includes but is not limited to hearing from both sides of the case and receiving the results of an independently administered polygraph test.”

Beyond the legal considerations, the Browns also placed significant emphasis on evaluating Bond’s potential as a football player. Berry explained, “Before the allegations, we also spent a great deal of time with Isaiah during the draft process on campus, at the Combine, and at our facilities.” This proactive engagement allowed the team to assess Bond’s character, work ethic, and overall fit within the Browns’ organization, painting a comprehensive picture of the player they were considering adding to their roster.