In a deeply personal move that resonates with cultural pride, Green Bay Packers offensive lineman Zach Tom has embraced a new identity, officially changing his last name to Bako-Bewele. This transformation is a heartfelt tribute to his Nigerian ancestry, designed to honor his grandparents and establish a profound lineage for generations to come.
NFL Star Embraces Ancestral Heritage with Name Change
On Sunday, August 2, 2026, Green Bay Packers offensive lineman Zach Tom, a prominent figure in the National Football League since his debut in 2022, officially announced his decision to change his surname. He will now be known as Bako-Bewele, a hyphenated name combining his grandparents' last names. This significant personal decision, as reported by Ryan Wood of the Green Bay Press Gazette (part of the USA TODAY Network), reflects Tom's desire to honor his Nigerian heritage and provide a meaningful legacy for his future family. "I want to have a name – especially when I start having kids and stuff – I want to have a name that I can pass down, where it represents where they came from, where I came from," Bako-Bewele shared with reporters. "I just feel like that name – people will see that name and have a good understanding of who I am and where I come from." The name change has been swiftly adopted, already appearing on the team's official website and in the locker room. Bako-Bewele, a fourth-round pick in the 2022 draft from Wake Forest, established himself as a formidable right tackle for the Packers in 2023. His performance earned him an impressive 83.5 PFF total offense grade in 2025, ranking him as the 10th best tackle in the NFL.
This remarkable decision by Zach Tom, now Bako-Bewele, offers a compelling reflection on the significance of personal identity and cultural roots in modern professional sports. It underscores how athletes, beyond their on-field achievements, can choose to express their heritage and forge a deeper connection with their ancestry. His thoughtful explanation, emphasizing the desire to pass down a name that encapsulates his origins, resonates with many who seek to maintain and celebrate their lineage. In an era where global identities are increasingly interwoven, Bako-Bewele's choice serves as an inspiring example of embracing one's past while looking towards the future, ensuring his family's story is visibly and proudly carried forward.
