Raiders take another playmaker in second round of NFL Draft

TCU wide receiver Jack Bech runs a drill at the NFL football scouting combine in Indianapolis, Saturday, March 1, 2025. Photo by: ASSOCIATED PRESS

The Raiders are using the 2025 NFL Draft to load up on offensive weapons.

After selecting Boise State running back Ashton Jeanty with No. 6 overall pick in the first round on Thursday night, Las Vegas took TCU wide receiver Jack Bech with the No. 58 overall pick in the second round tonight.

Bech, a Louisiana native, started his college career at LSU before transferring to TCU for his junior and senior seasons. He finished his time in college with a total of 133 catches for 1,869 yards and 13 touchdowns.

Scouts have praised Bech for his sure-handedness, route-running and physical mindset. Like Jeanty, he’s known as a first-rate tackle breaker.

The 22-year-old should compete, if not be favored, for a starting spot opposite Jakobi Meyers immediately. Second-year tight end Brock Bowers figures to be the focal point of the Raiders’ passing game and new quarterback Geno Smith’s top target but Meyers, Bech and slot receiver Tre Tucker look to be next in line.

Bech plans to play for more than himself in the NFL. He’s driven to honor the memory of his brother, former Princeton football player Tiger Bech, who was killed in the New Orleans terror attack on New Year’s Eve.

The Raiders have three more picks to use on Friday— the No. 68, No. 98 and No. 99 selections in the third round —  but that’s subject to change. They’ve already been active in the trade market, having moved down twice in exchange for extra picks before selecting Bech.

Las Vegas was initially slated to select No. 37 overall before  striking deals with the Miami Dolphins and Houston Texans.  

This is a developing story. Check back to lasvegassun.com for more coverage of the Raiders' draft later.