In the wake of a devastating personal loss, Jack Bech, newly drafted wide receiver for the Las Vegas Raiders, has transformed his grief into a heartfelt tribute to his late brother, Martin “Tiger” Bech. Tiger, a former Princeton football standout and New York stockbroker, was tragically killed in a terrorist attack on New Year’s Day in New Orleans. This senseless act claimed 14 lives and injured over 50 others.
Jack and Tiger shared an unbreakable bond, rooted in their love for football and family. Their final conversation, a FaceTime call on New Year’s Eve, was filled with mutual expressions of love. Jack recalls, “The last thing we ever said to each other, he told me he loved me. I told him I love him, he told me he loved me even more, hung up the phone—and that was the last words I ever spoke to him.”
Determined to honor his brother’s memory, Jack has made Tiger an integral part of his journey to the NFL. During the Senior Bowl, he wore Tiger’s Princeton jersey number, 7, and sported cleats adorned with angel wings and a Bible verse. He also has tattoos reading “7 to Heaven” and his brother’s birth and death dates in Roman numerals.
On draft night, Jack’s tribute continued. He wore a custom suit designed in honor of Tiger and cufflinks engraved with his brother’s fingerprints. These personal touches served as a testament to their enduring connection.
Jack’s dedication to preserving Tiger’s legacy is evident in his words: “Whatever team gets me, it’s going to be a two-for-one special. Not only do you get Jack Bech, you get Tiger Bech, too. I have a superpower now. I have another presence about me that just can’t lose.”
As Jack embarks on his professional football career, he carries with him the spirit and memory of his beloved brother, ensuring that Tiger’s legacy lives on both on and off the field.