Rookie WR Jack Bech Impresses at Raiders OTAs — Pete Carroll Hints at Major Role
“We’re going to force him to play early,” Carroll says of second-round pick turning heads in camp.
Bech Already Making Noise in Raiders Camp
The Las Vegas Raiders may have struck gold with second-round pick Jack Bech. The 6’5″, 220-pound wide receiver has been one of the most talked-about players during the team’s organized team activities (OTAs) this offseason. Known for his physicality and route-running ability, Bech has quickly caught the attention of teammates, coaches, and reporters alike.
“He’s not playing like a rookie,” one team insider said. “He’s playing like a guy who’s been in the league for three years.”
Bech’s size and hands have made him a consistent target in drills, especially in red zone and third-down scenarios. With soft hands, deceptive speed, and a strong catch radius, he’s already building chemistry with starting quarterback Geno Smith.
Pete Carroll: “We’re Going to Force Him to Play Early”
Newly hired head coach Pete Carroll didn’t mince words when asked about Bech’s role this season.
“He’s too talented to keep off the field. We’re going to force him to play early,” Carroll told reporters after a recent OTA session.
Coming from Carroll, a coach known for trusting rookies and building around their strengths, this is more than just typical preseason praise. It’s a clear signal that Bech is penciled into a meaningful role in the Raiders’ 2025 offense.
The Geno-Bech Connection
Despite coming over from Seattle this offseason, quarterback Geno Smith has already developed a quick rapport with his young receiver. The duo has reportedly been working together before and after practices, and the timing is evident on the field.
Bech’s ability to work the middle of the field, box out defenders on slants and posts, and win 50/50 balls on the outside makes him a versatile option — especially in a receiving corps that’s still sorting out its depth chart behind Davante Adams.
“He’s got a quarterback-friendly style,” Smith said. “He runs clean routes, gets open, and catches everything. That’s all you can ask for.”
A Matchup Nightmare in the Making
At 6’5″, Bech offers matchup problems for smaller defensive backs and linebackers alike. While he played both wide receiver and tight end during his college career at LSU and TCU, the Raiders are utilizing him almost exclusively as a wideout — but one who can line up all over the formation.
“He’s a hybrid weapon,” said offensive coordinator Mike LaFleur. “You can’t teach that kind of size and feel for the game. He knows how to find soft spots in the zone and how to use his body against man coverage.”
If he continues this trajectory, Bech could become a reliable third-down and red zone option early in his career.
Eyes on a Breakout Rookie Season
While it’s still early in the offseason, the buzz around Jack Bech is growing fast. The Raiders’ front office believed they got a steal when they selected him in the second round, and that belief is being validated with every practice rep.
With Pete Carroll making it clear that Bech will have every opportunity to contribute early — and Geno Smith already showing trust in him — the rookie receiver is shaping up to be one of the surprise breakout candidates of the 2025 NFL season.
For a team seeking a new identity and offensive rhythm, Jack Bech might be exactly what the Raiders need.
