Cardinals draft Justin Bethel from Presbyterian at 177

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.

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