Bryson Bonds is trading in his helmet for a headset.
After five seasons with Indiana football, Bonds is stepping away from the playing field and stepping into a new role with the program as a special teams assistant. The longtime Hoosier safety made the announcement Monday afternoon, signaling the next chapter in a career that’s been defined by grit, resilience, and a deep understanding of the game.
Bonds’ playing days came to an early end in 2025 after suffering a season-ending injury on kickoff coverage in the opener against Old Dominion. He had the option to pursue a medical hardship waiver and return for a sixth year in 2026, but instead, he’s choosing to stay in Bloomington and contribute in a different way - from the sidelines.
It’s a move that speaks volumes about his football IQ and the respect he’s earned within the program. Bonds, who arrived at IU in 2020, was the longest-tenured safety on the roster last season and a steady presence in the locker room. Over 48 career games, he logged 43 tackles and carved out a role as a key special teams contributor - the kind of player who might not light up the stat sheet but whose impact is felt in the details.
From the start, Bonds made an impression. Back in fall camp of 2020, then-defensive coordinator Kane Wommack singled him out as one of the most impressive freshmen he’d seen in years. That kind of early recognition doesn’t happen by accident - it’s earned through preparation, instinct, and a willingness to do the dirty work.
At 6-foot, 202 pounds, Bonds brought physicality and versatility to the safety room. He was expected to play a meaningful role in 2026, especially with questions surrounding the eligibility of Louis Moore due to his ongoing legal battle with the NCAA.
Had Moore been sidelined, Bonds was a strong candidate to step into a starting role. That’s how much trust the staff had in him.
Instead, he’ll be channeling that knowledge into coaching. His move mirrors that of former IU running back Justice Ellison, who joined the staff in 2025. Bonds becomes the latest example of a player transitioning seamlessly from field to film room, helping shape the next wave of Hoosiers.
For Indiana, it’s a win. Bonds knows the system, understands the grind, and has lived the culture. And for Bonds, it’s a natural evolution - staying close to the game he loves, just in a new capacity.