There is no guarantee that star wide receiver Isaiah Bond will suit up for Texas against Clemson on Saturday afternoon. Addressing the media during his Monday press conference, Texas Head Coach Steve Sarkisian stated that Bond is still dealing with the lingering effects of an ankle injury sustained in the SEC Championship Game against Georgia.
Bond was completely shut down during the team’s bye week, Sarkisian said, and the focus is now on getting him back to where he can play against the Tigers.
“Any time you have an ankle injury it just takes time,” Sarkisian said. “Isaiah and I had a great meeting last week, and he’s going to do everything in his power to play this week.
The injury occurred late in the fourth quarter in Atlanta when Bond’s ankle was rolled up on, forcing him to exit the field. Sarkisian had indicated on Selection Sunday that Bond would undergo an MRI, though no updates were provided until Monday.
“We’re going to have to monitor that daily as it goes, but I’ll get a bit better gauge coming out of practice today and tomorrow as to kind of where he’s at, and what his availability will look like for Saturday.”
Bond has been a key weapon for the Longhorns’ offense this season. He opened the year with a standout performance against Colorado State, recording a team-high five receptions for 61 yards and a touchdown, along with a 25-yard carry.
In Texas’ road win over Michigan, Bond hauled in three catches for 51 yards, including a 33-yard grab on the opening drive. He delivered a breakout performance against UTSA, posting five receptions for 103 yards and two touchdowns, marking his first career 100-yard receiving game and multi-touchdown effort.
His versatility continued to shine throughout the season. Bond recorded a 56-yard reception against ULM, a 26-yard rushing touchdown versus Mississippi State, and a 34-yard touchdown catch against Florida. For the season, Bond has contributed in all phases of the offense, accumulating explosive plays both through the air and on the ground.