Jack Bech, a rising star in college football, channels the memory of his late brother, Tiger, as he pursues his dreams of playing in the NFL. During the 2024 season, Bech put together an elite campaign for the Horned Frogs. He recorded 62 receptions for 1,034 yards and nine touchdowns. He focuses his ambition and work ethic to continue Tiger’s legacy. Through their friendship, Tiger becomes a guiding force in life for Connor.
Born in Louisiana, Jack Bech has never shied away from discussing his deep connection to his older brother. The friendship between the two of them was really special. Despite a five year age difference and dissimilar physical structure, their bond was unbreakable. Jack celebrates this special bond with an elaborate tattoo across his chest. Tiger 7 to Heaven, Tattoo Tribute Tiger’s tattoo memorializes his legacy, emblazoned with Roman numerals for Tiger’s birth and death dates. The tattoo serves as a constant reminder of their connection, and Jack often speaks of destiny when reflecting on his relationship with Tiger.
Jack’s college football journey has been nothing short of remarkable. In 2022, as a member of the Horned Frogs, he suffered a high ankle sprain that needed surgery. Even with this disappointment, he didn’t dwell and continued to focus on healing. Head coach Sonny Dykes reassured him that he wanted him to regain his freshman form, emphasizing that it was essential for Jack to take the time necessary to heal fully.
During his seventh grade, Jack’s positive action was to call Tiger. This instance occurred right before he was about to enter into middle school years which would greatly impact their relationship forever. Jack remembers that even at that young age, there was something comforting about knowing what his future would look like. His unyielding spirit was on display during an important stretch of the match. With just seven seconds remaining, he had the game-winning touchdown reception. After the game, this was how he stepped to the cameras — fierce emotion unfiltered. He was full of stories about how Tiger has inspired him on his incredible journey.
“I knew I was about to catch that ball and score that touchdown,” – Jack Bech
Jack’s family has a strong environmental and cultural connection to Louisiana, making his motivation even more personal. In conversation, he explains how his journey and the legacy of Tiger inspire his drive. His resilience post-tragedy has inspired many around him. As teammate and friend LeBlanc noted, “Some people could have spun off the rails after you lose your best friend, but it did the total opposite with Jack.”
In 2021, he showcased his talents as a hybrid tight end/slot receiver, earning spots on two different freshman All-America teams. That success would only help lay the groundwork for a magical 2024 season. This year, Jack further broke out as one of the premier pass catchers in all of college football.
“Jack was going to be in the league with or without Tiger’s passing, but Tiger’s passing kind of propelled him,” – LeBlanc
Jack’s dedication to bettering himself inside and out shows not only on the field but in his everyday life. He and Tiger went through training together in Fort Worth in preparation for the NFL draft, but the rifle and the grenade were not always enemies. Each shot and each touchdown ignites Jack’s love. He understands that he’s not just pursuing his own dreams, but living up to his brother’s dreams.
“Now he’s bound, determined and on fire to bring to the fullest potential his talent and ability in honor of Tiger and in honor of his faith,” – Strother
Jack looks forward to the next chapter of his professional life. He tells us often how deeply he accepts that responsibility—to carry not just his name, but the weight of Tiger’s legacy onto that green field. His determination is fierce. He can say this with absolute certainty, “Whatever team gets me, it’s going to be a two-for-one special. Not only do you get Jack Bech, but you get Tiger Bech.”
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