Jack Bech Drafted by Raiders Amid Family Tragedy
LAFAYETTE, La. — During an emotional evening, TCU wide receiver Jack Bech was selected by the Las Vegas Raiders as the 58th overall pick in the 2025 NFL Draft. This moment was bittersweet for Bech, who found himself celebrating while mourning the tragic loss of his older brother, Tiger Bech.
Tragic Background: New Orleans Terror Attack
On New Year’s Day, a horrific incident unfolded in New Orleans when 42-year-old Shamsud-Dun Jabbar drove his vehicle into a crowd on Bourbon Street, resulting in the deaths of 14 individuals, including Tiger Bech, a former football player at Princeton University. The chaos intensified as Jabbar later engaged in a shootout with police, and crude explosive devices were discovered in the vicinity, indicating a planned attack inspired by ISIS.
Remembering Tiger Bech
The Bech brothers, originally from Lafayette, Louisiana, made their mark playing football at St. Thomas More Catholic High School. Tiger Bech was a kick-returner and receiver who graduated from Princeton in 2021. He had recently relocated to New York for a job in finance and was enjoying a holiday trip to New Orleans when tragedy struck.
In a heartfelt tribute on social media, Jack Bech expressed his feelings: “Love you always brother! You inspired me every day. Now you get to be with me in every moment. I got this family T, don’t worry. This is for us.”
Jack Bech’s NFL Journey
Having played football for both TCU and LSU, Jack Bech showcased impressive statistics throughout his college career, accumulating 133 receptions for 1,869 yards and 13 touchdowns. His selection in the NFL Draft signifies the culmination of years of dedication and hard work.
Bech attributes a significant part of his success to Tiger, referring to him as a mentor who recognized his potential. To honor his brother’s memory, Jack has received two tattoos: one featuring the phrase “7 to Heaven” in tribute to Tiger’s jersey number, and another displaying his brother’s birth and death dates in Roman numerals across his heart.
Conclusion
As Jack Bech embarks on his professional career with the Raiders, he carries with him the legacy of his brother, the memories they shared, and an unwavering determination to honor his life through his accomplishments on the field.
For more information on this story, refer to the coverage by the Associated Press and TCU.