Former Texas receiver Isaiah Bond will not face criminal charges stemming from his April sexual assault arrest and announced Thursday that he's signing with the Cleveland Browns.
Collin County (Texas) district attorney Greg Willis announced on Thursday that a grand jury returned a "no bill" account on the sexual assault charge against Bond, concluding proceedings against Bond and freeing him up to pursue his NFL career, which will lead him to Cleveland.
"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 in a statement posted to social media. "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.
"I know there have been questions and reports about the recent allegations. I am grateful for the decision of the prosecutor and the courts not to pursue charges. I will learn from this experience as I grow in wisdom, character, and faith. On the advice of my attorney, I will not discuss the details of this case, but I want to be clear: from the very beginning I have refuted these allegations and maintained my innocence. I stand firm by that today."
The Browns have not yet announced they have signed Bond.
Bond surrendered to authorities on sexual assault charges in April. After posting bail, he released a statement firmly denying the allegations. Bond subsequently filed a federal complaint alleging false allegations and a coercion attempt.
A top prospect with demonstrated talent but limited production at both Alabama and Texas, Bond went undrafted in April after his arrest. NFL.com's Lance Zierlein compared him to Dolphins star receiver Jaylen Waddle prior to the draft, noting Bond's premier speed and untapped potential.
