Green Bay Packers right tackle Zach Tom is changing his last name to Bako-Bewele to honor his family’s Nigerian heritage. The offensive lineman, who signed a four-year, $88 million contract extension before the 2025 season, confirmed the personal decision at training camp as he prepares for the upcoming campaign.
When the Green Bay Packers take the field for the 2026 NFL season, their stalwart right tackle will bear a new name across his jersey. Zach Tom confirmed to reporters that he is legally changing his last name to Bako-Bewele, blending his paternal grandparents’ Nigerian surnames to forge a lasting family legacy. The updated surname combines Bako, the last name of his father’s mother, with Bewele, the surname of his father’s father.
Family Heritage and the Reasoning Behind Bako-Bewele
Born Zachary Miskom Tom to parents Michael and Vanessa Tom, the offensive lineman began researching his roots during the offseason after years of curiosity about his ancestry. The legal name change process actually commenced in March, though team facilities were quick to reflect the personal shift ahead of the season.
He added that the new surname gives observers a clearer picture of his identity. I just feel like that people will see that name and have a good understanding of who I am,
he explained to media members during training camp. The team website and his locker nameplate inside Lambeau Field already display the updated moniker, though updating his official league jersey requires finalization of his legal documentation with the NFL.
On-Field Performance and Contract Status in Green Bay
Selected by the Packers in the fourth round of the 2022 NFL Draft out of Wake Forest, Bako-Bewele quickly established himself as a cornerstone of the offensive line. After making five starts as a rookie, he secured the full-time right tackle job, starting every regular-season game across both the 2023 and 2024 campaigns.
Injuries tested his durability in 2025, limiting him to 12 games after a partial tear in his patellar tendon during Week 14. Even with the missed time, his performance remained elite when on the field. Pro Football Focus graded him at 83.5 overall, placing him seventh among 89 qualifying tackles while allowing zero sacks.
Training Camp Recovery and 2026 Outlook
Entering his fifth professional season, Bako-Bewele has arrived at training camp healthy and participating in individual and walk-through drills as he nears a full return to team practices. Hopefully I can start doing team reps within a week or so,
Bako-Bewele told reporters. But yeah, I mean, I’m out there moving around. I feel good, look good. So, you know, it’s time to get it going.
His presence anchors an offensive line undergoing several shifts, including Sean Rhyan moving to center and Anthony Belton stepping in at right guard. With Green Bay slated to open its regular season against the division-rival Minnesota Vikings on September 13, Bako-Bewele maintains every intention of being in the starting lineup to anchor the trenches under his newly honored family name.
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