Login

Register | Forgot Your Password? | Close
Bethel2.jpg
Associated Press
The Arizona Cardinals selected cornerback Justin Bethel from Presbyterian with the 177th pick overall Saturday.

Bethel started four years for Presbyterian and is an effective pass and run defender. He possess good size and athleticism and has been deemed a strong physical presence working on the line of scrimmage.

The 6'0", 200-pound defensive back was considered a sleeper in this year's draft. Bethel is explosive making plays down the field and his versatility allows him to play safety or contribute on special teams. The Cardinals are listing Bethel as a safety but will use him in a variety of different roles.

He is considered to be a true gamer and should blend well in the Cardinals defensive scheme. Bethel is the second defensive back taken by the Cardinals in this year's draft.

Bethel thrived in his senior season and compiled 87 tackles, a sack and had four interceptions, one of which was returned for a touchdown. His quickness contributed to punt and field- goal blocks, as well.

The Big South Conference Defensive Player of the Year opened eyes at the NFL Combine when he showcased his jaw-dropping leaping skills. Bethel recorded a 39.5-inch vertical leap, which was fifth best overall.

Bethel is the first Presbyterian player drafted since 1969.

3 Comments   |   Join the conversation »
  • Add A Comment 
  • Abuse
    FitzIsMyHero wrote...
    Nice pick
    We need any depth we can get at CB because JEFFERSON wouldnt be the answer to a rhetorical question much less a real question (can he play CB? Uh, no!).
  • Abuse
    CardAz1 wrote...
    Good pick!!!,
    Wasnt real happy with this pick at first but after looking into him a bit more i definately see why our scouts/coaches thought this guy could get the job done. Smaller school though, competition wasnt as great and the Cal Bear game he clings to, ummm they werent that great of a team. Hope this pans out!!! AJ Jefferson will be better this yr, if given the opportunity...
  • Abuse
    DanTheTimid wrote...
    Fine with pick
    I also was a little weary of this pick at first, just because it seems like we keep drafting CBs when I'd rather be getting guys who can put pressure on the QB to make things easier on the Cbs we already have, but I think he probably was the best value at this spot, with a lot of physical talent that could help him see play at other positions as well if the situation should require it. Heck, with a leap like that maybe Fitz can convert him to a solid number 3 receiver, could you imagine our end zone corner toss threat with two leapers of this caliber?
close

Share: