Former Dallas Cowboys standout Dez Bryant knows what top-tier receiving talent looks like, and he’s made it clear he sees something special in Las Vegas Raiders rookie Jack Bech. The ex-TCU wideout, selected in the second round of the 2026 NFL Draft, already has the endorsement of one of the game’s most electrifying former stars.
“He will be playing in the NFL for a long time,” Bryant said in a quote tweet celebrating Bech’s rookie contract signing, strong words from a receiver who carved out a nine-year NFL career at a high level.
Bech has also caught the attention of national analysts. CBS Sports’ Chris Trapasso praised his complete skill set, saying, “Bech has as well-rounded of a game as any receiver in the rookie class. Beyond blazing speed, he can do it all. And he will showcase that veteran-like polish for the Raiders early and often in 2025.”
However, despite the praise, Bech has found himself somewhat overshadowed this offseason by another rookie, Dont’e Thornton.
Taken two rounds after Bech, Thornton has become one of the most talked-about players at Raiders OTAs. Raiders.com’s Levi Edwards called him “one of, if not the most impressive rookie” so far. And Vincent Bonsignore of the Las Vegas Review-Journal noted that Thornton’s route running and footwork looked more refined than expected, despite concerns about the simplicity of the college offense he came from.
While both Bech and Thornton are showing early promise, the path to playing time remains wide open. Outside of veteran Jakobi Meyers, no starting spots are guaranteed in the Raiders’ receiving corps. Third-year player Tre Tucker is currently the biggest competitor for reps, but both rookies have a legitimate shot at earning starting roles—possibly even together.
As of now, Thornton may have the early edge, but training camp, which begins this week, will be the true proving ground. With their talent and opportunity, both Bech and Thornton could be front and center when the Raiders take the field in Week 1.