The joy that takes over when a player is picked in the draft is sky-high. It’s energetic, emotional, and so many things all at once. That was the case for Jack Bech, whose draft selection by the Raiders was nothing short of pure, unaltered happiness. Family and friends all jumped up in joy when his name was called, congratulating him on the new chapter in his life. Also sending love are some of his close friends from LSU, his former home.

Bech played two seasons at LSU before transferring to TCU after the 2022 season. While with the Tigers, the WR had developed a close friendship with LSU star, Garrett Nussmeier. He told Jacques Doucet last year that the QB remains one of his “best friends,” despite being at another program. When Bech lost his brother Tiger Bech to the devastating New Orleans attack on New Year’s Day, Nussmeier lent his shoulder for support.

“I love you brother ❤️ you are the strongest dude I know. 7toHeaven❤️‍🔥,” Nussmeier wrote under a post Bech shared, remembering his brother. That friendship has also extended to Nussmeier’s lady love and family, who also marked their support for Bech’s drafting.

Ella Springfield, Nussmeier’s girlfriend, was present and shared a video of the moments that followed the Raiders announcing they were picking Bech. She captured the sheer elation that spread in the room, with Bech already donning the team cap. All you can hear are applauses and cheers, everyone so overjoyed with the talented WR’s drafting. She also wrote, “@jack.bech IS A LAS VEGAS RAIDER,” her happiness matching the vibe of the room.

Nussmeier’s brother, Colton, also shared a post marking the drafting, as a note of congratulations to Bech. Colton is an upcoming QB, and is already ranked the No. 4 QB in the class of 2027. The LSU quarterback himself also turned up to support Bech, as he goes on to be a great addition to the Raiders’ WR room.

Garrett Nussmeier honors Jack Bech’s struggle with brother’s loss

Nussmeier made it a point to tell the world how deeply Bech’s brother’s passing affected the WR. He told ESPN, “Whatever team gets me, they’re not only meeting Jack Bech, but they’re meeting Tiger Bech.” Nussmeier shared the quote, honoring his friend’s words and the way he has dealt with that loss. The day Martin ‘Tiger’ Bech died, the Sugar Bowl was supposed to be held. Weeks later, Jack closed out his college career with a win, and also wore his brother’s jersey as a remembrance.

Bech went through that tough time after recording his most productive season ever. He was the 5 TCU player in program history to produce more than 1000 yards in a season. Not only that, he was a semifinalist in the run-up to the Biletnikoff Award. After he won his bowl game, Bech was also named Senior Bowl MVP. He has always been vocal about honoring his brother’s legacy through his career. During the draft, Bech wore his brother’s Rolex, as a way of keeping him close during the most important moment of his life.

Garrett Nussmeier and Colton know the hard work Bech put in his career. Moreover, the QB knows the kind of effort his friend had to put into overcoming such a traumatic time. As Bech heads on to the Raiders as Pick No. 58, he knows that he’ll always focus on making his brother proud.