Indiana Freshman WR Lebron Bond Poised for Playing Time After Impressive Offseason
BLOOMINGTON, Ind. — Despite a deep receiving corps, freshman Lebron Bond has made such an impression during the offseason that he’s now in a strong position to earn snaps this fall for Indiana football. 
Roman Hemby, the Hoosiers’ top running back, begins his comments by acknowledging the overall talent of Indiana’s receivers, particularly the skill and mindset of All-American Elijah Sarratt and returning starter Omar Cooper Jr. But when it comes to standout players, Hemby starts with the true freshman.
“I think Lebron Bond is one of the young guys really having a spectacular time,” Hemby said. “I’ve seen him catch a lot of balls and make some incredible catches.”
Bond’s offseason success hasn’t gone unnoticed. Following Indiana’s spring game, head coach Curt Cignetti singled him out as a standout freshman, highlighting his improvement and consistent effort.
The buzz around Bond began in March when Sarratt praised the early enrollee for his strong start in practices. “He looks really good,” Sarratt said. “As a freshman, he makes some minor mistakes, but I tell him to play fast, and everything else will fall into place. He’ll pick it up quickly.”
It seems Bond has done just that. A four-star recruit according to ESPN and a three-star by other major outlets, Bond had a strong showing in the spring game, leading the Hoosiers in receiving with four catches for 29 yards and a touchdown — a clear sign of his potential.
Cignetti has noted that Bond has continued to build on his spring success. “Football is really important to him,” Cignetti said. “He’s picked up right where he left off and has improved. He still needs to show more consistency, but he’s in position to contribute this fall.”
At 5-foot-9 and 173 pounds, Bond is primarily suited for the slot receiver role, though Cignetti values versatility in his receivers. The receiving corps already features Sarratt, Cooper, and senior EJ Williams, with sophomore Charlie Becker and senior transfers Jonathan Brady and Makai Jackson adding depth. As a result, playing time might be limited for Bond — unless the game is already out of reach.
Even so, the Hoosiers have full confidence that Bond’s time will come, and his impressive offseason has proven he’ll be ready when the opportunity arises.
No Comment! Be the first one.