In the final stretch of the 2024 Arizona Cardinals’ season, tight end Bernhard Seikovits has earned a special honor – wearing the coveted Tillman practice jersey for the week. This distinction is given to the standout scout team player, voted on by the coaching staff. The honor is not just about outstanding performance but embodies the essence of perseverance, dedication, and selflessness that Pat Tillman exemplified.
Seikovits, a 27-year-old Austrian, wore No. 40, a jersey that carries significant meaning within the team. The camouflage numbers pay tribute to the late Tillman, a former Cardinal whose legacy is honored through this award. Seikovits received the recognition for the second time in as many seasons, a reflection of his tireless work ethic despite not being a regular game-day player.
“I feel like every player, no matter where he’s from, whether Florida or a small town in the U.S., every player has someone behind them, and they’re creating a path for people after them,” Seikovits said. “As an international player, there aren’t many of us, but I hope I can make it easier for others back home who want to follow in my footsteps.”
Though Seikovits did not play on Sundays during the season, he has been a constant presence in the locker room and during practice. Coach Jonathan Gannon has praised Seikovits for his commitment to learning and improving, despite being on the practice squad for most of his four years with the team. Seikovits, who originally did not know about Pat Tillman’s legacy before joining the Cardinals, now fully understands the honor of wearing the No. 40 jersey.
“It’s really inspiring,” Seikovits said. “And it’s a big honor to get the jersey. I’m just trying to do my best every day and prepare for when my time comes.”
As the Cardinals face off against the 49ers for the final game of the season, Seikovits will continue to wear the Tillman jersey, embodying the values that make him not only a dedicated teammate but a true embodiment of the Cardinals’ spirit.
