Jack Bech catches winning TD in Senior Bowl, honors brother killed in New Orleans attack

In a poignant moment on the football field, Jack Bech took a knee to pray before the Senior Bowl, wearing a No. 7 jersey in honor of his late brother, Martin "Tiger" Bech. Tiger, an accomplished wide receiver and All-Ivy League return specialist at Princeton, was tragically killed in a terrorist attack on New Year's Day in New Orleans. Just a month after the devastating loss, Jack Bech showcased his talent with six receptions for 68 yards and the game-winning touchdown, earning the title of MVP.

Reflecting on his performance, Bech attributed his success to the presence of his brother’s spirit, suggesting that divine intervention guided him in that decisive moment. “Man, it's simple: my brother had some wings on me. He gave it to me,” he shared in an interview with NFL Network, emphasizing the deep bond he felt during the game.

This touchdown marked a bittersweet milestone for Bech, as it was his first score without Tiger cheering from the sidelines. The game, held in Mobile, Ala., concluded a week of intense practices for top senior players preparing for the NFL draft. Jack's performance not only demonstrated his skills but also played a crucial role in increasing his chances of being drafted.

In addition to his on-field accomplishments, Bech marked his brother’s memory with new tattoos, including “7 to Heaven” and significant dates emblazoned in Roman numerals. He expressed that his motivation for playing and succeeding in football is rooted in honoring Tiger’s legacy and their strong connection.

Originally from Lafayette, La., Jack Bech began his college football career at LSU before transferring to TCU, where he emerged as one of the nation's standout receivers in 2024. Inspired by his brother's unrealized dream of playing in the NFL, Jack is determined to fulfill that aspiration and continue to carry Tiger's memory with him in every game he plays.