“Why the Browns Were Confident in Signing Isaiah Bond: GM Andrew Berry Explains the Process”
In a decisive move to strengthen their wide receiver corps, the Cleveland Browns have signed undrafted rookie Isaiah Bond to a three-year, fully guaranteed contract totaling around $3 million. Browns EVP and General Manager Andrew Berry offered a clear window into the team’s decision-making—one rooted in deep familiarity, thorough evaluation, and mutual trust.
Berry highlighted that the Browns hadn’t just discovered Bond overnight—they’d been following his journey for the past year, on and off the field. Their assessment spanned multiple settings: the Combine, in-person campus visits, and facility meetings that showcased Bond’s character and work ethic.
The front office conducted an exhaustive review of Bond’s legal history following the sexual assault allegations. This included interviews with all involved parties and an independently administered polygraph test. Combined with the grand jury’s “no bill” decision—meaning no indictment—this gave the Browns the confidence to proceed
Another pivotal factor: Bond’s prior connection with Tommy Rees, now the Browns’ offensive coordinator, who coached him at Alabama. That shared background offered Berry invaluable insights into Bond’s football instincts and adaptability within a pro setting
Despite Bond going undrafted, the fully guaranteed contract is comparable to what a late second- or early third-round pick would receive. The gambit underscores Cleveland’s belief in his elite speed (4.39-second 40-yard dash), game-breaking potential, and the belief that he can thrive in a competitive WR group alongside talents like Jerry Jeudy, Cedric Tillman, Jamari Thrash, and Diontae Johnson. Bond himself expressed gratitude and determination, indicating a readiness to move forward on and off the field.
