Raiders’ Draft Pick Jack Bech Dedicates NFL Dream to Late Brother, Victim of Bourbon Street Attack

The Las Vegas Raiders’ recent second-round draft pick, wide receiver Jack Bech, has shared a deeply personal and emotional story, revealing that his journey to the NFL is not solely his own. Bech, a former standout player at TCU, dedicates his success to his late brother, Tiger, who tragically lost his life in a terrorist attack on Bourbon Street during the early hours of New Year’s Day.

In a poignant interview on Fox & Friends, Bech expressed that he views himself as a "two-for-one special," emphasizing that the Raiders are not only acquiring his talents but also honoring the memory and aspirations of his brother. "I feel like, or I don’t feel like, I know I’m a two-for-one special now. Not only are the Raiders getting Jack Bech, they are getting Tiger Bech too," he stated, his voice filled with emotion.

Bech elaborated on the shared dream he held with his brother from a young age. "This wasn’t just my dream, it was our dream, it was something that we talked about from a very young age. My brother always saw it in me way before I even saw it in myself," he explained. Tiger’s unwavering belief in Jack’s potential served as a constant source of motivation and encouragement throughout his athletic journey.

Describing his brother’s profound impact on his life, Bech emphasized Tiger’s role as a mentor and guide. "My brother is the one, he pushed me each and every day to be the best. He showed me how to live, he showed me how to play the game, but most importantly, showed me how to be a good human being, how to put others first and how to truly love," Bech shared, highlighting the values instilled in him by his brother.

The loss of Tiger has undoubtedly left a deep void in Bech’s life, but he finds solace and strength in his unwavering faith in God. Reflecting on the moment he learned of his brother’s passing, Bech described it as a "weird" and "crazy" feeling, acknowledging the initial disbelief and shock. "Oh yeah, it was definitely a weird crazy feeling. You know you never think those things will happen to you until they actually do. It was definitely a hard pill to swallow," he admitted.

However, Bech’s faith provides him with a sense of understanding and acceptance. "But at the end of the day, knowing that God makes no mistakes, and He does everything for a specific reason and purpose and plan, and really just go to your knees and fully embrace that," he explained, emphasizing his trust in a higher power.

Bech credits his upbringing and the unwavering support of his family for their ability to cope with this immense tragedy. "God does everything for a reason and that He will take care of you and my family and that’s what me and family did and without our faith and belief and trust in God we definitely would not be where we are today. Just like in the way we handled everything and continue to handle everything," he stated.

Bech’s faith has been a lifelong journey, rooted in his parents’ commitment to taking him to church from a young age. "I think obviously my parents from a young age just always bringing me to church, you know just putting the church on me from a young age and just getting older, going through high school and college just (having) different mentors," he shared.

Throughout his life, Bech has encountered individuals who have played a pivotal role in strengthening his faith. "So many different people along the way helping me stay on the right path and not only helping me stay on the right path but truly strengthening my faith along each step of the way. It’s been so huge to me, and like I said without all those people in my life helping build up my faith I definitely don’t think I would have been able to handle, my family wouldn’t have been able to handle the situation the way we have," he acknowledged.

Before joining the Raiders, Bech honed his skills at both LSU and TCU. He spent his first two collegiate seasons with the LSU Tigers before transferring to TCU. It was during his senior year with the Horned Frogs that Bech truly shined, recording an impressive 62 receptions for 1,034 yards and nine touchdowns.

As he embarks on his NFL career with the Raiders, Bech will join a talented offensive unit that includes tight end Brock Bowers, wide receivers Jakobi Meyers and Tre Tucker, and quarterback Geno Smith. He hopes to contribute to the team’s success while honoring the memory of his brother, Tiger.

Bech’s story is a testament to the power of faith, family, and the enduring bond between brothers. He serves as an inspiration to others, demonstrating resilience in the face of adversity and dedicating his accomplishments to the memory of a loved one. The Raiders are not only gaining a talented football player but also a man of character and unwavering spirit.