MINNEAPOLIS, MN. — Nahson Wright was playing Sunday's game with a heavy heart. It was just days ago that former Laney College head coach and athletic director John Beam was shot and killed on campus in Oakland. Beam coached Wright and his brother, Rejzohn Wright, as he had a legendary career at Laney College, including being featured on the Netflix show "Last Chance U."
On Sunday, Wright came up with a big interception in the first half in the end zone, picking off J.J. McCarthy on a spectacular play. Following the game, Wright discussed Beam and what he meant to him not only as a football coach but as a human being.
"He meant the world to me," Wright said. "When my dad was killed, he came to my house and got me out of bed. Someone I can confide in and someone that I just love dearly. We talk once a week, easily. Really at a loss of words."
Wright's father was shot and killed in 2017 and Beam was someone who stepped in as a father figure for him and Rejzhon. Wright played one year at Laney in 2018 and his brother was there from 2018-19.
"Beam stepped in. He stepped in as a father figure, a father role. He did a lot for me and my brother, my family," Wright said. "He's been there every step of the way, and it won't stop. I gained an angel, for sure."
Following the interception, Wright and his position coach, Al Harris, shared a moment on the sideline as the two gave each other a big hug. It was a reminder that life is short and fragile.
Nahshon Wright and Al Harris after the Wright interception on the sideline.pic.twitter.com/DnKA8sqJbM
— ✶ Ⓜ️𝕒𝕣𝕔𝕦𝕤 ▶️ ✶ (@_MarcusD3_) November 16, 2025
Wright's teammates knew he was playing with a heavy heart as well.
"Super proud of him, super happy for him. I know he's been through a lot this week," Kevin Byard said. "He was playing with a heavy heart today, so I just told him how much I was proud of him. It's just a special one to get an interception after the week he had."
Wright also told reporters that he kept the ball he intercepted and will give it to Beam's family.
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