Since playing his final game for TCU on November 30, 2024, Jack Bech has been on an emotional rollercoaster.
His NFL dreams came true in April when the Las Vegas Raiders selected him in the second round of the draft. The moment he got the call, Bech was flooded with emotion, having just capped a standout season that included over 1,000 receiving yards and an MVP performance at the Reese’s Senior Bowl.
“My heart and mind were racing,” Bech recalled. “It was surreal. I think about that moment every day. I’m just grateful to God for allowing me to play the sport I love.”
But before reaching this milestone, Bech endured a devastating personal loss. His older brother, Tiger Bech, who had been a guiding force in his life, was tragically killed during a New Year’s Eve terrorist attack on Bourbon Street in New Orleans.
Tiger wasn’t just a sibling—he was Jack’s mentor, role model, and best friend. Losing him left a void that no success could fill.
“Some days are tougher than others,” Bech said. “I still cry, I still stay up thinking about it. I lost my best friend and biggest supporter.”
Through the pain, Bech has used his platform to honor his brother’s legacy, appearing on national outlets like ESPN to share Tiger’s story.
“I get to tell the world about the kind of person Tiger was,” he said. “This opportunity has allowed me to help others connect with faith and carry my brother’s name forward.”
One of the most emotional moments came on draft night, when Bech and his family shared a group hug moments after the Raiders’ call.
“It was me, my parents, my two sisters—and I know Tiger was there with us in spirit,” he said. “We all said, ‘We did it.’ That’s a moment I’ll always treasure. But I told them, this isn’t the end goal. Getting drafted is just the beginning. I want to stand out in the NFL.”
Bech said Tiger’s memory fuels his drive and strengthens his already relentless work ethic.
Now a Raider
Bech now enters the NFL with a franchise rich in tradition. Las Vegas may not have found recent success, but with Pete Carroll at the helm, there’s new hope.
“Coach Carroll is one of the greats,” Bech said. “To learn from a Hall of Fame-caliber coach in my first year is something I’m incredibly thankful for. Everyone I’ve talked to who’s played for him loves him.”
Bech also looks forward to building chemistry with quarterback Geno Smith, known for his accuracy and comeback story.
“It’s huge knowing your quarterback trusts you—and that you can trust him to put the ball where it needs to be,” he said.
As he begins his NFL career, Bech took time to reflect on his journey—particularly his transfer from LSU to TCU, a move he says changed his life both on and off the field.
“LSU showed me I had what it takes. But TCU gave me the real shot,” Bech said. “That place will always be special to me. It’s a family, starting with Coach Sonny Dykes. Coming to TCU was one of the best choices I’ve ever made.”
Bech is now in Las Vegas for rookie mini-camp and joins a talented Raiders offense that includes tight end Brock Bowers, receiver Jakobi Meyers, and first-round running back Ashton Jeanty.
As for what fans can expect from him on the field?
“I’m smart, physical, and I play fast with relentless effort,” Bech said. “I’m never going to quit. I’ll give everything for the Raiders. This is where I’m meant to be.”
