INDIANAPOLIS – Isaiah Bond is setting his ambitions high as he prepares to compete at the 2025 NFL Scouting Combine. The former University of Texas wide receiver is confidently aiming to break the 40-yard dash record set by his fellow Longhorn Xavier Worthy last year. Bond boldly proclaimed, "I'm going to break the record tomorrow for sure. I anticipate running 4.20 or possibly, if I'm feeling great, I might run 4.1," when he spoke to reporters on Friday.
Last year, Worthy made headlines by running the 40-yard dash in 4.21 seconds, eclipsing the previous record of 4.22 seconds set by John Ross II back in 2017. Worthy’s impressive sprint contributed to his rise as the 28th overall pick by the Kansas City Chiefs, highlighting the importance of speed at the combine.
Bond, not one to shy away from challenges, has previously been clocked at 4.23 seconds during his training sessions. Bond stated, "I've been running my whole life. I've been one of the fastest (athletes) my whole life. So I'm going to go out there, and when practice meets preparation, greatness is achieved. I'm just going to trust my training and put on a show." His extensive preparation reflects his dedication to not only match but potentially exceed Worthy’s feat.
Throughout his collegiate career, Bond has proven his prowess on the field, transitioning from Alabama to Texas where he hoped to shine even brighter. While his 2024 season was somewhat disappointing compared to expectations, Bond managed to catch 34 passes for 540 yards and score five touchdowns. The previous season, he had amassed 48 receptions for 668 yards and four touchdowns, proving his capabilities as one of the top receivers. If he can break Worthy’s record, Bond hopes to increase his visibility and attract more attention from NFL scouts.
Setting the record would likely bolster Bond’s draft position. Currently, the BR NFL Scouting Department ranks him as the No. 9 wide receiver and No. 61 overall player for the upcoming draft, placing him primarily in discussions for the second round. A record-breaking performance could significantly alter his prospects, pushing him higher up the draft board as NFL teams are always on the lookout for explosive speed and talent.
With the NFL Combine providing athletes the opportunity to showcase their talents directly to scouts and coaches, Bond understands the significance of this event. He shared his mindset leading up to the big day—expressing excitement and confidence. Shortly after Worthy set the record, he set his own goal publicly, posting on Instagram, "4.20 next year," which showed his determination even before setting foot on the track.
The NFL Combine, running from February 25 to March 2, is where hopes meet reality for aspiring NFL players. This highly anticipated event allows players to showcase their athleticism and interview with coaching staffs from around the league. Teams are assessing which players will make the biggest impact on the field, and speed is certainly among the qualities they covet.
Bond’s past achievements underline his potential, having previously won state titles as a high school track star with times of 10.51 seconds for the 100-meter sprint and 21.19 seconds for the 200 meters. His blend of speed and football skill puts him squarely on the radar for many scouts attending the combine. To succeed, Bond needs not just speed but also to showcase agility and overall athleticism, factors he emphasizes during his training.
At the combine, during the wide receivers' 40-yard dash on March 1, Bond’s preparation and talent will face the ultimate test. All eyes will be on this young athlete as he seeks to carve out his place among the next generation of NFL stars. Fans and team officials alike are eager to see if he can eclipse Worthy’s benchmark and create his own legacy at the NFL Combine.
Despite not being seen as the most likely first-round pick, Bond has the opportunity to shift perceptions with his performance. A record-breaking dash could influence draft predictions, underscoring how quickly fortunes can change in the fleeting moments of the 40-yard run.
With the combine spotlight solidly on him, Bond not only seeks personal glory but also aims to inspire his former teammates and younger athletes aspiring to achieve similar success. The outcome of the upcoming dash will surely shape the narrative around him for the foreseeable future.