Former Cardinal Justin Bethel agrees to deal with Falcons

Mar 24, 2018, 9:03 AM

Tampa Bay Buccaneers wide receiver DeSean Jackson (11) makes a touchdown catch in front of Arizona Cardinals cornerback Justin Bethel (28) during the second half of an NFL football game Sunday, Oct. 15, 2017, in Glendale, Ariz. The Cardinals defeated the Buccaneers 38-33. (AP Photo/Rick Scuteri)

(AP Photo/Rick Scuteri)

BY TYLER DRAKE

Cardinals reporter, ArizonaSports.com editor

Another Arizona Cardinal free agent is heading elsewhere as cornerback Justin Bethel has agreed to terms with the Atlanta Falcons Saturday.

Bethel came into the league in 2012 as a sixth-round draft pick out of Presbyterian College. He spent six seasons with the Cardinals, playing cornerback and on special teams. He was a three-time pro bowler on special teams and a two-time All-Pro.

In 2017, Bethel started six games for Arizona. He made 41 tackles, knocked down four balls and snagged one interception — which he returned 82 yards for a touchdown.

In his career, the 27-year-old has 160 tackles, four interceptions — including three returned for touchdowns — and 19 batted balls. He’s started 14 games.

Before he could don his new colors, Bethel took the time to say thank you to the Cardinals organization and the fans.

Two numbers and 6 years later. I’ve made so many memories and brothers for a life time. I can’t thank the Arizona Cardinals organization and fans for welcoming me with open arms. Arizona became home and I’ll never forget the times I’ve spent here. It’s been real Az. #backtotheeastcoast

A post shared by Justin Bethel (@jbet26) on Mar 24, 2018 at 6:52am PDT

With Bethel’s departure, the Cardinals are still trying to find someone to play opposite of Patrick Peterson.

The team signed Bene Benwikere Friday and brought E.J. Gaines and Robert McClain in for visits this past week.

Former Cardinal Marcus Cooper visited Arizona Friday, but the Chicago Bears are considered the frontrunners to sign the cornerback.

Follow @Tdrake4sports

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