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{{Short description|American football player (born 1990)}}
{{Short description|American football player (born 1990)}}
{{Use mdy dates|date=October 2023}}
{{Use mdy dates|date=March 2024}}
{{Infobox NFL biography
{{Infobox NFL biography
|name=Justin Bethel
| name = Justin Bethel
|image=Justin Bethel.JPG
| image = Justin Bethel 2014.jpg
|image_size=200
| image_size =
|alt=
| alt =
|caption=Bethel with the Cardinals in 2013
| caption = Bethel in 2014
| number =
|current_team=Miami Dolphins
| current_team =
|number=20
|position=[[Cornerback]] <br> [[Special teamer#Special teams|Special teamer]]
| position = [[Cornerback]] <br> [[Special teamer]]
|birth_date={{Birth date and age|1990|6|17|mf=y}}
| birth_date = {{Birth date and age|1990|6|17|mf=y}}
|birth_place=[[Sumter, South Carolina]], U.S.
| birth_place = [[Sumter, South Carolina]], U.S.
|death_date=
| death_date =
|death_place=
| death_place =
|height_ft=6
| height_ft = 6
|height_in=0
| height_in = 0
| weight_lb = 195
|weight_lbs=200
|high_school=Blythewood<br/>([[Blythewood, South Carolina]])
| high_school = Blythewood <br> ([[Blythewood, South Carolina]])
|college=[[Presbyterian Blue Hose football|Presbyterian]]
| college = [[Presbyterian Blue Hose football|Presbyterian]] (2008–2011)
|draftyear=2012
| draftyear = 2012
|draftround=6
| draftround = 6
|draftpick=177
| draftpick = 177
|pastteams=
| pastteams =
* [[Arizona Cardinals]] ({{NFL Year|2012}}–{{NFL Year|2017}})
* [[Arizona Cardinals]] ({{NFL Year|2012|2017}})
* [[Atlanta Falcons]] ({{NFL Year|2018}})
* [[Atlanta Falcons]] ({{NFL Year|2018}})
* [[Baltimore Ravens]] ({{NFL Year|2019}})
* [[Baltimore Ravens]] ({{NFL Year|2019}})
* [[New England Patriots]] ({{NFL Year|2019}}–{{NFL Year|2021}})
* [[New England Patriots]] ({{NFL Year|2019|2021}})
* [[Miami Dolphins]] ({{NFL Year|2022}}–present)
* [[Miami Dolphins]] ({{NFL Year|2022|2023}})
|status = Active
| status =
|highlights =
| highlights =
* 2× First-team [[All-Pro]] ([[2013 All-Pro Team|2013]], [[2015 All-Pro Team|2015]])
* 2× First-team [[All-Pro]] ([[2013 All-Pro Team|2013]], [[2015 All-Pro Team|2015]])
* 3× [[Pro Bowl]] ([[2014 Pro Bowl|2013]]–[[2016 Pro Bowl|2015]])
* 3× [[Pro Bowl]] ([[2014 Pro Bowl|2013]]–[[2016 Pro Bowl|2015]])
* 3× Second-team All-[[Big South Conference|Big South]] (2009–2011)
|statleague=NFL
|statseason=2023
| statseason = 2024
|statweek=3
| statweek =
| statlabel1 = [[Tackle (football move)|Tackles]]
| statlabel1 = [[Tackle (football move)|Total tackles]]
| statvalue1 = 272
| statvalue1 = 282
| statlabel2 = [[Quarterback sack|Sacks]]
| statlabel2 = [[Quarterback sack|Sacks]]
| statvalue2 = 0.5
| statvalue2 = 0.5
| statlabel3 = [[Fumble|Forced fumbles]]
| statlabel3 = [[Fumble|Forced fumbles]]
| statvalue3 = 5
| statvalue3 = 5
| statlabel4 = [[Fumble|Fumble recoveries]]
| statlabel4 = [[Fumble|Fumble recoveries]]
| statvalue4 = 8
| statvalue4 = 8
| statlabel5 = [[Pass deflected|Pass deflections]]
| statlabel5 = [[Pass deflections]]
| statvalue5 = 24
| statvalue5 = 25
| statlabel6 = [[Interception]]s
| statlabel6 = [[Interceptions]]
| statvalue6 = 5
| statvalue6 = 5
| statlabel7 = [[Touchdowns|Defensive touchdowns]]
| statlabel7 = [[Touchdown|Defensive touchdowns]]
| statvalue7 = 3
| statvalue7 = 3
| pfr = B/BethJu00
|nflnew=justin-bethel
|pfr=B/BethJu00
}}
}}


'''Justin Andrew Bethel'''<ref>{{Cite web |title=Justin Bethel Stats, Height, Weight, Position, Draft, College |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/players/B/BethJu00.htm |access-date=October 30, 2023 |website=Pro-Football-Reference.com |language=en}}</ref> (born June 17, 1990) is an [[American football]] [[cornerback]] and [[special teamer]] for the [[Miami Dolphins]] of the [[National Football League]] (NFL). He was drafted by the [[Arizona Cardinals]] in the sixth round of the [[2012 NFL Draft]]. He played [[college football]] at [[Presbyterian Blue Hose football|Presbyterian]].
'''Justin Andrew Bethel'''<ref>{{Cite web |title=Justin Bethel Stats, Height, Weight, Position, Draft, College |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/players/B/BethJu00.htm |access-date=October 30, 2023 |website=Pro-Football-Reference.com |language=en}}</ref> (born June 17, 1990) is an American professional [[American football|football]] [[cornerback]] and [[special teamer]]. He played [[college football]] for the [[Presbyterian Blue Hose football|Presbyterian Blue Hose]] and was selected by the [[Arizona Cardinals]] in the sixth round of the [[2012 NFL draft]].


==Early life==
==Early life==
Bethel was born in [[Sumter, South Carolina]], and at age 6 he moved with his family to Columbia.<ref name="expanded sports">{{cite web|last=Gaiter|first=Joe|title=Justin Bethel's Road to the NFL|url=http://expandedsports.com/2012/05/justin-bethel-road-to-the-nfl/|work=Expanded Sports|access-date=December 23, 2013|date=May 3, 2012|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131224112013/http://expandedsports.com/2012/05/justin-bethel-road-to-the-nfl/|archive-date=December 24, 2013}}</ref> He started playing football at age 11 when he was in sixth grade. He attended [[List of high schools in South Carolina#Richland County|Blythewood High School]]<ref name="expanded sports"/> where in 2007 he was named Blythewood's Defensive Player of the Year and Most Improved Defensive Player. He helped the team win the State Championship in 2006.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Cruse |first=Josh |last2=2016 |date=September 23, 2016 |title=Bethel reminisces about Blythewood’s 2006 title |url=https://www.thecolumbiastar.com/articles/bethel-reminisces-about-blythewoods-2006-title/ |access-date=October 30, 2023 |website=Columbia Star}}</ref>
Bethel was born in [[Sumter, South Carolina]], and at age 6 he moved with his family to Columbia.<ref name="expanded sports">{{Cite web |last=Gaiter |first=Joe |date=May 3, 2012 |title=Justin Bethel's Road to the NFL |url=http://expandedsports.com/2012/05/justin-bethel-road-to-the-nfl/ |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131224112013/http://expandedsports.com/2012/05/justin-bethel-road-to-the-nfl/ |archive-date=December 24, 2013 |access-date=December 23, 2013 |website=Expanded Sports}}</ref> He started playing football at age 11 when he was in sixth grade. He attended [[List of high schools in South Carolina#Richland County|Blythewood High School]]<ref name="expanded sports" /> where in 2007 he was named Blythewood's Defensive Player of the Year and Most Improved Defensive Player. He helped the team win the State Championship in 2006.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Cruse |first=Josh |date=September 23, 2016 |title=Bethel reminisces about Blythewood’s 2006 title |url=https://www.thecolumbiastar.com/articles/bethel-reminisces-about-blythewoods-2006-title/ |access-date=October 30, 2023 |website=Columbia Star}}</ref>


==College career==
==College career==
Bethel did not receive much interest from college football programs, and he planned to study [[culinary arts]] at [[Johnson & Wales University]], until his high school coach, former Clemson co-offensive coordinator and USF head coach [[Jeff Scott]], was hired to be a coach for the [[Presbyterian Blue Hose football#athletics|Presbyterian College Blue Hose]].<ref name="cook">{{Cite web |last=Kendall |first=Josh |date=February 27, 2012 |title=Bethel ready to cook in new career |url=http://www.thestate.com/2012/02/27/2169081/bethel-ready-to-cook-in-new-career.html |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://archive.ph/20130205072021/http://www.thestate.com/2012/02/27/2169081/bethel-ready-to-cook-in-new-career.html |archive-date=February 5, 2013 |website=TheState.com}}</ref> Bethel decided to attend Presbyterian, and majored in Business Administration.
Bethel did not receive much interest from college football programs, and he planned to study [[culinary arts]] at [[Johnson & Wales University]], until his high school coach, former Clemson co-offensive coordinator and USF head coach [[Jeff Scott]], was hired to be a coach for the [[Presbyterian Blue Hose football|Presbyterian Blue Hose]].<ref name="cook">{{Cite web |last=Kendall |first=Josh |date=February 27, 2012 |title=Bethel ready to cook in new career |url=http://www.thestate.com/2012/02/27/2169081/bethel-ready-to-cook-in-new-career.html |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://archive.today/20130205072021/http://www.thestate.com/2012/02/27/2169081/bethel-ready-to-cook-in-new-career.html |archive-date=February 5, 2013 |website=TheState.com}}</ref> Bethel decided to attend Presbyterian, and majored in Business Administration.


Bethel played in 12 games during his freshman season in 2008, amassing 54 tackles and 37 solo tackles. He had two interceptions and two blocked kicks. 2009 was a breakout season for Bethel. He had a team-best 79 tackles during 11 games, 55 of which were solo. He blocked 3 kicks, two in a game against [[Gardner–Webb University]]. He also forced one fumble and had 4.5 tackles for a loss. For his efforts, he was named to the [[Big South Conference]] All-Conference Second-team Defensive squad.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Justin Bethel - 2011 - Football |url=https://gobluehose.com/sports/football/roster/justin-bethel/2653 |access-date=October 30, 2023 |website=Presbyterian College |language=en}}</ref>
Bethel played in 12 games during his freshman season in 2008, amassing 54 tackles and 37 solo tackles. He had two interceptions and two blocked kicks. 2009 was a breakout season for Bethel. He had a team-best 79 tackles during 11 games, 55 of which were solo. He blocked 3 kicks, two in a game against the [[Gardner–Webb Runnin' Bulldogs football|Gardner–Webb Runnin' Bulldogs]]. He also forced one fumble and had 4.5 tackles for a loss. For his efforts, he was named to the [[Big South Conference]] all-conference second-team defensive squad.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Justin Bethel – 2011 – Football |url=https://gobluehose.com/sports/football/roster/justin-bethel/2653 |access-date=October 30, 2023 |website=Presbyterian College |language=en}}</ref>


==Professional career==
==Professional career==
===Pre-draft===
Bethel caught the attention of pro scouts with a strong performance in the [[East-West Shrine Game]].<ref name="cook"/> He had a [[YouTube]] video showing him making a [[vertical leap]] onto boxes five feet high. Coming out of Presbyterian, he was projected to be a fifth or sixth round pick. He received an invitation to the [[NFL Combine]] and completed all of the required combine drills. His vertical leap of {{cvt|39+1/2|in}} was the highest of any defensive player who attended the combine.<ref>Darren Rovell, [https://www.cnbc.com/id/47143728 "Draft Sleeper Justin Bethel Turns Heads By Jumping Five Feet In The Air], [[CNBC.com]], April 23, 2012.</ref> On March 9, 2012, Bethel participated at Presbyterian's pro day and opted to run the 40, 20, and 10-yard dash while also performing positional drills. He was ranked as the seventh best free safety prospect in the draft by NFLDraftScout.com.
Bethel caught the attention of pro scouts with a strong performance in the [[East-West Shrine Game]].<ref name="cook" /> He had a [[YouTube]] video showing him making a [[vertical leap]] onto boxes five feet high. Coming out of Presbyterian, he was projected to be a fifth or sixth round pick. He received an invitation to the [[NFL Combine]] and completed all of the required combine drills. His vertical leap of {{cvt|39+1/2|in}} was the highest of any defensive player who attended the combine.<ref>Darren Rovell, [https://www.cnbc.com/2012/04/23/draft-sleeper-justin-bethel-turns-heads-by-jumping-five-feet-in-the-air.html "Draft Sleeper Justin Bethel Turns Heads By Jumping Five Feet In The Air], [[CNBC.com]], April 23, 2012.</ref> On March 9, 2012, Bethel participated at Presbyterian's pro day and opted to run the 40, 20, and 10-yard dash while also performing positional drills. He was ranked as the seventh best free safety prospect in the draft by NFLDraftScout.com.
{{NFL predraft
{{NFL predraft
| height ft = 5
| height ft = 5
Line 81: Line 81:
| arm span = 32+3/8
| arm span = 32+3/8
| hand span = 9+3/4
| hand span = 9+3/4
| note = All values from [[NFL Combine]]<ref name="draft">{{cite web|url=http://www.nfl.com/combine/profiles/justin-bethel?id=2532792| title=NFL Draft Profile: Justin Bethel| access-date=October 24, 2017| website=NFL.com}}</ref>
| note = All values from [[NFL Combine]]<ref name="draft">{{Cite web |title=NFL Draft Profile: Justin Bethel |url=http://www.nfl.com/combine/profiles/justin-bethel?id=2532792 |access-date=October 24, 2017 |website=NFL.com}}</ref>
}}
}}


===Arizona Cardinals===
===Arizona Cardinals===
The [[2012 Arizona Cardinals season|Arizona Cardinals]] selected Bethel in the sixth round (177th overall) of the [[2012 NFL draft]].<ref>{{Cite web |title=2012 NFL Draft Listing |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/years/2012/draft.htm |access-date=May 14, 2023 |website=Pro-Football-Reference.com |language=en}}</ref> He was the first Presbyterian player selected in the NFL Draft since 1969.<ref>{{Cite news|url=http://www.gobluehose.com/ViewArticle.dbml?DB_OEM_ID=18100&ATCLID=205421102|title=Bethel Drafted by NFL in Sixth Round|date=April 28, 2012|work=GoBlueHose.com|access-date=March 28, 2018}}</ref>


====2012====
====2012====
[[File:Justin Bethel.JPG|thumb|Bethel in 2013]]
On May 15, 2012, the Arizona Cardinals signed Bethel to a four-year rookie contract.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Urban |first=Darren |date=May 15, 2012 |title=Four Draft Picks Agree To Deals |url=http://www.azcardinals.com/news-and-events/article-2/Four-Draft-Picks-Agree-To-Deals/4c8c6e2d-4aba-4ef2-83e8-13e964d1c1f7 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180328103127/http://www.azcardinals.com/news-and-events/article-2/Four-Draft-Picks-Agree-To-Deals/4c8c6e2d-4aba-4ef2-83e8-13e964d1c1f7 |archive-date=March 28, 2018 |access-date=March 28, 2018 |website=Arizona Cardinals}}</ref>
The [[2012 Arizona Cardinals season|Arizona Cardinals]] selected Bethel in the sixth round (177th overall) of the [[2012 NFL draft]].<ref>{{Cite web |title=2012 NFL Draft Listing |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/years/2012/draft.htm |access-date=May 14, 2023 |website=Pro-Football-Reference.com |language=en}}</ref> He was the first Presbyterian player selected in the NFL Draft since 1969.<ref>{{Cite news |date=April 28, 2012 |title=Bethel Drafted by NFL in Sixth Round |url=http://www.gobluehose.com/ViewArticle.dbml?DB_OEM_ID=18100&ATCLID=205421102 |access-date=March 28, 2018 |work=GoBlueHose.com}}</ref> On May 15, 2012, the Arizona Cardinals signed Bethel to a four-year rookie contract.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Urban |first=Darren |date=May 15, 2012 |title=Four Draft Picks Agree To Deals |url=http://www.azcardinals.com/news-and-events/article-2/Four-Draft-Picks-Agree-To-Deals/4c8c6e2d-4aba-4ef2-83e8-13e964d1c1f7 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180328103127/http://www.azcardinals.com/news-and-events/article-2/Four-Draft-Picks-Agree-To-Deals/4c8c6e2d-4aba-4ef2-83e8-13e964d1c1f7 |archive-date=March 28, 2018 |access-date=March 28, 2018 |website=Arizona Cardinals}}</ref>


Bethel entered his first training camp with the Cardinals as a free safety, but was moved to cornerback by defensive coordinator [[Ray Horton]] a few weeks into camp. He competed with [[Greg Toler]], [[Michael Adams (American football)|Michael Adams]], [[Crezdon Butler]], [[A. J. Jefferson]], and [[Jamell Fleming]] for a backup cornerback position. Head coach [[Ken Whisenhunt]] named him the sixth cornerback on the Arizona Cardinals' depth chart to begin his rookie season, behind [[Patrick Peterson]], [[William Gay (cornerback)|William Gay]], Greg Toler, Jamell Fleming, and Michael Adams.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.ourlads.com/nfldepthcharts/archive/135/ARZ| title=Ourlads.com: Arizona Cardinals depth chart: 10/01/2012| access-date=October 26, 2017| website=ourlads.com}}</ref>
Bethel entered his first training camp with the Cardinals as a free safety, but was moved to cornerback by defensive coordinator [[Ray Horton]] a few weeks into camp. He competed with [[Greg Toler]], [[Michael Adams (American football)|Michael Adams]], [[Crezdon Butler]], [[A. J. Jefferson]], and [[Jamell Fleming]] for a backup cornerback position. Head coach [[Ken Whisenhunt]] named him the sixth cornerback on the Arizona Cardinals' depth chart to begin his rookie season, behind [[Patrick Peterson]], [[William Gay (cornerback)|William Gay]], Greg Toler, Jamell Fleming, and Michael Adams.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Ourlads.com: Arizona Cardinals depth chart: 10/01/2012 |url=http://www.ourlads.com/nfldepthcharts/archive/135/ARZ |access-date=October 26, 2017 |website=ourlads.com}}</ref>


Bethel made his professional regular season debut in the [[2012 Arizona Cardinals season|Arizona Cardinals']] season-opening 20–16 win over the [[2012 Seattle Seahawks season|Seattle Seahawks]]. On December 23, 2012, Bethel recovered [[Olindo Mare]]'s blocked field goal and returned it 82-yards for a touchdown in a 28–13 loss to the [[2012 Chicago Bears season|Chicago Bears]].<ref>{{Cite web |last=McManaman |first=Bob |date=December 23, 2012 |title=Bears 28, Cardinals 13 |url=https://sports.yahoo.com/news/bears-28-cardinals-13-010010621--nfl.html |access-date=December 23, 2012 |website=[[Yahoo! Sports]]}}</ref> The Cardinals finished with a 5–11 record and did not qualify for the playoffs.<ref>{{Cite web |title=2012 NFL Standings & Team Stats |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/years/2012/index.htm |access-date=October 30, 2023 |website=Pro-Football-Reference.com |language=en}}</ref> He finished his rookie season with 13 total tackles.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Justin Bethel 2012 Game Log |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/players/B/BethJu00/gamelog/2012/ |access-date=October 30, 2023 |website=Pro-Football-Reference.com |language=en}}</ref>
Bethel made his professional regular season debut in the Cardinals' season-opening 20–16 win over the [[Seattle Seahawks]]. On December 23, 2012, Bethel recovered [[Olindo Mare]]'s blocked field goal and returned it 82-yards for a touchdown in a 28–13 loss to the [[Chicago Bears]].<ref>{{Cite web |last=McManaman |first=Bob |date=December 23, 2012 |title=Bears 28, Cardinals 13 |url=https://sports.yahoo.com/news/bears-28-cardinals-13-010010621--nfl.html |access-date=December 23, 2012 |website=[[Yahoo! Sports]]}}</ref> The Cardinals finished with a 5–11 record and did not qualify for the playoffs.<ref>{{Cite web |title=2012 NFL Standings & Team Stats |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/years/2012/index.htm |access-date=October 30, 2023 |website=Pro-Football-Reference.com |language=en}}</ref> He finished his rookie season with 13 total tackles.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Justin Bethel 2012 Game Log |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/players/B/BethJu00/gamelog/2012/ |access-date=October 30, 2023 |website=Pro-Football-Reference.com |language=en}}</ref>


====2013====
====2013====
Bethel entered Arizona Cardinals' training camp in {{NFL Year|2013}} competing with [[Antoine Cason]], [[Jerraud Powers]], Jamell Fleming, [[Javier Arenas (American football)|Javier Arenas]], and [[Bryan McCann]] for the vacant starting cornerback position left by the departure of William Gay. New Cardinals' head coach [[Bruce Arians]] named him the sixth cornerback on the depth chart to begin the season, behind Patrick Peterson, Jerraud Powers, Antoine Cason, Javier Arenas, and Jamell Fleming.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.ourlads.com/nfldepthcharts/archive/150/ARZ| title=Ourlads.com: Arizona Cardinals' depth chart: 09/05/2013| access-date=October 27, 2017| website=ourlads.com}}</ref>
Bethel entered Arizona Cardinals' training camp in {{NFL Year|2013}} competing with [[Antoine Cason]], [[Jerraud Powers]], Jamell Fleming, [[Javier Arenas (American football)|Javier Arenas]], and [[Bryan McCann]] for the vacant starting cornerback position left by the departure of William Gay. New Cardinals' head coach [[Bruce Arians]] named him the sixth cornerback on the depth chart to begin the season, behind Patrick Peterson, Jerraud Powers, Antoine Cason, Javier Arenas, and Jamell Fleming.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Ourlads.com: Arizona Cardinals' depth chart: 09/05/2013 |url=http://www.ourlads.com/nfldepthcharts/archive/150/ARZ |access-date=October 27, 2017 |website=ourlads.com}}</ref>


On September 15, 2013, Bethel blocked a field goal for the first time in his career against the [[2013 Detroit Lions season|Detroit Lions]].<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.azcardinals.com/news-and-events/article-2/Cardinals-Lock-Down-Lions/e6aaa8aa-6332-4d0d-bf19-89f51281e82e|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180328103033/http://www.azcardinals.com/news-and-events/article-2/Cardinals-Lock-Down-Lions/e6aaa8aa-6332-4d0d-bf19-89f51281e82e|url-status=dead|archive-date=March 28, 2018|title=Cardinals Lock Down Lions|last=Urban|first=Darren|date=September 15, 2013|work=Arizona Cardinals|access-date=March 28, 2018}}</ref> On November 10, he blocked another field goal, this time against the [[2013 Houston Texans season|Houston Texans]].<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.azcardinals.com/news-and-events/article-2/A-Touchdown-For-Rob-Housler/b21db2df-4ccc-438e-9e27-836180bcf75b|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180328103337/http://www.azcardinals.com/news-and-events/article-2/A-Touchdown-For-Rob-Housler/b21db2df-4ccc-438e-9e27-836180bcf75b|url-status=dead|archive-date=March 28, 2018|title=A Touchdown For Rob Housler|last=Odegard|first=Kyle|date=November 10, 2013|work=Arizona Cardinals|access-date=March 28, 2018}}</ref> Bethel was selected to be in the [[2014 Pro Bowl]] as a special teams player, joining teammates Patrick Peterson, Antonio Cromartie, and [[Calais Campbell]]. He became the first player from Presbyterian to become a Pro bowler.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.azcardinals.com/news-and-events/article-2/Peterson-Abraham-Bethel-Pro-Bowl-Trio/3061ca14-e359-4ae8-8335-7a04ad4f00bf|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180328103044/http://www.azcardinals.com/news-and-events/article-2/Peterson-Abraham-Bethel-Pro-Bowl-Trio/3061ca14-e359-4ae8-8335-7a04ad4f00bf|url-status=dead|archive-date=March 28, 2018|title=Peterson, Abraham, Bethel Pro Bowl Trio|last=Urban|first=Darren|date=December 27, 2013|work=Arizona Cardinals|access-date=March 28, 2018}}</ref> The Cardinals finished with a 10–6 record and did not qualify for the playoffs.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.azcardinals.com/news-and-events/article-2/Tough-Finish-For-Cardinals-But-Hope/19f570c2-2cc8-4abb-b78a-6557e99ad731|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180328103253/http://www.azcardinals.com/news-and-events/article-2/Tough-Finish-For-Cardinals-But-Hope/19f570c2-2cc8-4abb-b78a-6557e99ad731|url-status=dead|archive-date=March 28, 2018|title=Tough Finish For Cardinals, But Hope|last=Urban|first=Darren|date=December 29, 2013|work=Arizona Cardinals|access-date=March 28, 2018}}</ref> He finished his second season with 21 tackles and two field goal blocks.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Justin Bethel 2013 Game Log |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/players/B/BethJu00/gamelog/2013/ |access-date=October 30, 2023 |website=Pro-Football-Reference.com |language=en}}</ref>
On September 15, 2013, Bethel blocked a field goal for the first time in his career against the [[Detroit Lions]].<ref>{{Cite web |last=Urban |first=Darren |date=September 15, 2013 |title=Cardinals Lock Down Lions |url=http://www.azcardinals.com/news-and-events/article-2/Cardinals-Lock-Down-Lions/e6aaa8aa-6332-4d0d-bf19-89f51281e82e |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180328103033/http://www.azcardinals.com/news-and-events/article-2/Cardinals-Lock-Down-Lions/e6aaa8aa-6332-4d0d-bf19-89f51281e82e |archive-date=March 28, 2018 |access-date=March 28, 2018 |website=Arizona Cardinals}}</ref> On November 10, he blocked another field goal, this time against the [[Houston Texans]].<ref>{{Cite web |last=Odegard |first=Kyle |date=November 10, 2013 |title=A Touchdown For Rob Housler |url=http://www.azcardinals.com/news-and-events/article-2/A-Touchdown-For-Rob-Housler/b21db2df-4ccc-438e-9e27-836180bcf75b |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180328103337/http://www.azcardinals.com/news-and-events/article-2/A-Touchdown-For-Rob-Housler/b21db2df-4ccc-438e-9e27-836180bcf75b |archive-date=March 28, 2018 |access-date=March 28, 2018 |website=Arizona Cardinals}}</ref> Bethel was selected to be in the [[2014 Pro Bowl]] as a special teams player, joining teammates Patrick Peterson, Antonio Cromartie, and [[Calais Campbell]]. He became the first player from Presbyterian to become a Pro bowler.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Urban |first=Darren |date=December 27, 2013 |title=Peterson, Abraham, Bethel Pro Bowl Trio |url=http://www.azcardinals.com/news-and-events/article-2/Peterson-Abraham-Bethel-Pro-Bowl-Trio/3061ca14-e359-4ae8-8335-7a04ad4f00bf |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180328103044/http://www.azcardinals.com/news-and-events/article-2/Peterson-Abraham-Bethel-Pro-Bowl-Trio/3061ca14-e359-4ae8-8335-7a04ad4f00bf |archive-date=March 28, 2018 |access-date=March 28, 2018 |website=Arizona Cardinals}}</ref> The Cardinals finished with a 10–6 record and did not qualify for the playoffs.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Urban |first=Darren |date=December 29, 2013 |title=Tough Finish For Cardinals, But Hope |url=http://www.azcardinals.com/news-and-events/article-2/Tough-Finish-For-Cardinals-But-Hope/19f570c2-2cc8-4abb-b78a-6557e99ad731 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180328103253/http://www.azcardinals.com/news-and-events/article-2/Tough-Finish-For-Cardinals-But-Hope/19f570c2-2cc8-4abb-b78a-6557e99ad731 |archive-date=March 28, 2018 |access-date=March 28, 2018 |website=Arizona Cardinals}}</ref> He finished his second season with 21 tackles and two field goal blocks.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Justin Bethel 2013 Game Log |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/players/B/BethJu00/gamelog/2013/ |access-date=October 30, 2023 |website=Pro-Football-Reference.com |language=en}}</ref>


====2014====
====2014====
Bethel gave up his number #31 to [[Antonio Cromartie]] and switched to #28, which belonged to [[Rashard Mendenhall]] the season prior before he retired.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.revengeofthebirds.com/2014/4/25/5652006/antonio-cromartie-gets-his-31-justin-bethel-to-wear-28|title=Cromartie gets No. 31 from Bethel|last=Root|first=Jess|date=April 25, 2014|work=Revenge of the Birds|access-date=March 28, 2018}}</ref> He competed for the starting cornerback job in training camp, going up against Antonio Cromartie, Jerraud Powers, and [[Brandon Sermons]]. Head coach Bruce Arians named Bethel the fourth cornerback on the depth chart to begin {{NFL Year|2014}}, behind Patrick Peterson, Antonio Cromartie, and Jerraud Powers.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.ourlads.com/nfldepthcharts/archive/164/ARZ| title=Ourlads.com: Arizona Cardinals' depth chart: 10/01/2014| access-date=October 27, 2017| website=ourlads.com}}</ref>
Bethel gave up his number #31 to [[Antonio Cromartie]] and switched to #28, which belonged to [[Rashard Mendenhall]] the season prior before he retired.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Root |first=Jess |date=April 25, 2014 |title=Cromartie gets No. 31 from Bethel |url=https://www.revengeofthebirds.com/2014/4/25/5652006/antonio-cromartie-gets-his-31-justin-bethel-to-wear-28 |access-date=March 28, 2018 |website=Revenge of the Birds}}</ref> He competed for the starting cornerback job in training camp, going up against Antonio Cromartie, Jerraud Powers, and [[Brandon Sermons]]. Head coach Bruce Arians named Bethel the fourth cornerback on the depth chart to begin {{NFL Year|2014}}, behind Patrick Peterson, Antonio Cromartie, and Jerraud Powers.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Ourlads.com: Arizona Cardinals' depth chart: 10/01/2014 |url=http://www.ourlads.com/nfldepthcharts/archive/164/ARZ |access-date=October 27, 2017 |website=ourlads.com}}</ref>


On November 2, 2014, Bethel recorded his third career blocked field goal against the [[2014 Dallas Cowboys season|Dallas Cowboys]].<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.azcardinals.com/news-and-events/article-2/Confident-Cardinals-Batter-Cowboys/c4bfe173-8a05-4610-bce5-825a8c4142e7|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180320105919/http://www.azcardinals.com/news-and-events/article-2/Confident-Cardinals-Batter-Cowboys/c4bfe173-8a05-4610-bce5-825a8c4142e7|url-status=dead|archive-date=March 20, 2018|title=Confident Cardinals Batter Cowboys|last=Urban|first=Darren|date=November 2, 2014|work=Arizona Cardinals|access-date=March 28, 2018}}</ref> He was named the NFC Special Teams Player of the Week three days later.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.azcardinals.com/news-and-events/article-2/Block-Earns-Justin-Bethel-NFC-Award/ce01bdd5-600a-4164-b40b-7a7e579c83f8|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180328102907/http://www.azcardinals.com/news-and-events/article-2/Block-Earns-Justin-Bethel-NFC-Award/ce01bdd5-600a-4164-b40b-7a7e579c83f8|url-status=dead|archive-date=March 28, 2018|title=Block Earns Justin Bethel NFC Award|last=Urban|first=Darren|date=November 5, 2014|work=Arizona Cardinals|access-date=March 28, 2018}}</ref> On December 7, Bethel grabbed a game-saving fumble recovery in the fourth quarter against the [[2014 Kansas City Chiefs season|Kansas City Chiefs]], his first recovery of his career on defense.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.azcardinals.com/news-and-events/article-2/Cardinals-Film-Room-Finding-The-Fumble/7f3184ac-36e7-407f-9597-c949c2ee3f93|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180328103233/http://www.azcardinals.com/news-and-events/article-2/Cardinals-Film-Room-Finding-The-Fumble/7f3184ac-36e7-407f-9597-c949c2ee3f93|url-status=dead|archive-date=March 28, 2018|title=Cardinals Film Room: Finding The Fumble|last=Odegard|first=Kyle|date=December 8, 2014|work=Arizona Cardinals|access-date=March 28, 2018}}</ref> He was also named NFC special teams Player of the Month for December. The last time a Cardinal won this award was Patrick Peterson in November 2011.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.espn.com/blog/arizona-cardinals/post/_/id/12054|title=Justin Bethel named NFC special teams player of the month|last=Weinfuss|first=Josh|date=December 31, 2014|work=ESPN.com|access-date=March 28, 2018}}</ref> He finished his third season with 25 total tackles.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Justin Bethel 2014 Game Log |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/players/B/BethJu00/gamelog/2014/ |access-date=October 30, 2023 |website=Pro-Football-Reference.com |language=en}}</ref>
On November 2, 2014, Bethel recorded his third career blocked field goal against the [[Dallas Cowboys]].<ref>{{Cite web |last=Urban |first=Darren |date=November 2, 2014 |title=Confident Cardinals Batter Cowboys |url=http://www.azcardinals.com/news-and-events/article-2/Confident-Cardinals-Batter-Cowboys/c4bfe173-8a05-4610-bce5-825a8c4142e7 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180320105919/http://www.azcardinals.com/news-and-events/article-2/Confident-Cardinals-Batter-Cowboys/c4bfe173-8a05-4610-bce5-825a8c4142e7 |archive-date=March 20, 2018 |access-date=March 28, 2018 |website=Arizona Cardinals}}</ref> He was named the NFC Special Teams Player of the Week three days later.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Urban |first=Darren |date=November 5, 2014 |title=Block Earns Justin Bethel NFC Award |url=http://www.azcardinals.com/news-and-events/article-2/Block-Earns-Justin-Bethel-NFC-Award/ce01bdd5-600a-4164-b40b-7a7e579c83f8 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180328102907/http://www.azcardinals.com/news-and-events/article-2/Block-Earns-Justin-Bethel-NFC-Award/ce01bdd5-600a-4164-b40b-7a7e579c83f8 |archive-date=March 28, 2018 |access-date=March 28, 2018 |website=Arizona Cardinals}}</ref> On December 7, Bethel grabbed a game-saving fumble recovery in the fourth quarter against the [[Kansas City Chiefs]], his first recovery of his career on defense.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Odegard |first=Kyle |date=December 8, 2014 |title=Cardinals Film Room: Finding The Fumble |url=http://www.azcardinals.com/news-and-events/article-2/Cardinals-Film-Room-Finding-The-Fumble/7f3184ac-36e7-407f-9597-c949c2ee3f93 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180328103233/http://www.azcardinals.com/news-and-events/article-2/Cardinals-Film-Room-Finding-The-Fumble/7f3184ac-36e7-407f-9597-c949c2ee3f93 |archive-date=March 28, 2018 |access-date=March 28, 2018 |website=Arizona Cardinals}}</ref> He was also named NFC special teams Player of the Month for December. The last time a Cardinal won this award was Patrick Peterson in November 2011.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Weinfuss |first=Josh |date=December 31, 2014 |title=Justin Bethel named NFC special teams player of the month |url=https://www.espn.com/blog/arizona-cardinals/post/_/id/12054 |access-date=March 28, 2018 |website=ESPN.com}}</ref> He finished his third season with 25 total tackles.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Justin Bethel 2014 Game Log |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/players/B/BethJu00/gamelog/2014/ |access-date=October 30, 2023 |website=Pro-Football-Reference.com |language=en}}</ref>


Bethel was voted to the [[2015 Pro Bowl]] as a special teams player, becoming the second player in franchise history to make the Pro Bowl multiple times as a special teamer (with [[Ron Wolfley]]).<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.revengeofthebirds.com/2014/12/23/7444581/2015-pro-bowl-arizona-cardinals-facts|title=AZ Cardinals Pro Bowl facts|last=Root|first=Jess|date=December 23, 2014|work=Revenge of the Birds|access-date=March 28, 2018}}</ref> The [[2014 Arizona Cardinals season|Arizona Cardinals]] finished second in the [[NFC West]] with an 11–5 record and received a playoff berth.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000444210/article/arizona-cardinals-clinch-first-postseason-berth-since-2009|title=Arizona Cardinals clinch first postseason berth since 2009|date=December 14, 2014|work=NFL.com|access-date=March 28, 2018}}</ref> On January 3, 2015, Bethel appeared in his first career postseason game and tackled [[2014 Carolina Panthers season|Carolina Panthers']] punter [[Brad Nortman]] in the end zone for a safety during the fourth quarter of a 16–27 loss to the [[2014 Carolina Panthers season|Carolina Panthers]] in the NFC [[2014–15_NFL_playoffs#NFC:_Carolina_Panthers_27,_Arizona_Cardinals_16|Wild Card Round]].<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.azcardinals.com/news-and-events/article-2/Special-Teams-Struggles-in-Carolina/86910db1-1157-4828-a1fd-6b078518ccfb|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180328102946/http://www.azcardinals.com/news-and-events/article-2/Special-Teams-Struggles-in-Carolina/86910db1-1157-4828-a1fd-6b078518ccfb|url-status=dead|archive-date=March 28, 2018|title=Special Teams Struggles in Carolina|last=Odegard|first=Kyle|date=January 3, 2015|work=Arizona Cardinals|access-date=March 28, 2018}}</ref>
Bethel was voted to the [[2015 Pro Bowl]] as a special teams player, becoming the second player in franchise history to make the Pro Bowl multiple times as a special teamer (with [[Ron Wolfley]]).<ref>{{Cite web |last=Root |first=Jess |date=December 23, 2014 |title=AZ Cardinals Pro Bowl facts |url=https://www.revengeofthebirds.com/2014/12/23/7444581/2015-pro-bowl-arizona-cardinals-facts |access-date=March 28, 2018 |website=Revenge of the Birds}}</ref> The Cardinals finished second in the [[NFC West]] with an 11–5 record and received a playoff berth.<ref>{{Cite web |date=December 14, 2014 |title=Arizona Cardinals clinch first postseason berth since 2009 |url=https://www.nfl.com/news/arizona-cardinals-clinch-first-postseason-berth-since-2009-0ap3000000444210 |access-date=March 28, 2018 |website=NFL.com}}</ref> On January 3, 2015, Bethel appeared in his first career postseason game and tackled [[2014 Carolina Panthers season|Carolina Panthers']] punter [[Brad Nortman]] in the end zone for a safety during the fourth quarter of a 16–27 loss to the [[Carolina Panthers]] in the NFC [[2014–15 NFL playoffs#NFC: Carolina Panthers 27, Arizona Cardinals 16|Wild Card Round]].<ref>{{Cite web |last=Odegard |first=Kyle |date=January 3, 2015 |title=Special Teams Struggles in Carolina |url=http://www.azcardinals.com/news-and-events/article-2/Special-Teams-Struggles-in-Carolina/86910db1-1157-4828-a1fd-6b078518ccfb |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180328102946/http://www.azcardinals.com/news-and-events/article-2/Special-Teams-Struggles-in-Carolina/86910db1-1157-4828-a1fd-6b078518ccfb |archive-date=March 28, 2018 |access-date=March 28, 2018 |website=Arizona Cardinals}}</ref>


====2015====
====2015====
Bethel entered training camp competing with Jerraud Powers for the vacant starting cornerback job left by the departure of Antonio Cromartie.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.revengeofthebirds.com/2015/3/26/8294225/jerraud-powers-will-be-tough-to-beat-out-at-cornerback-justin-bethel|title=BA, Bowles talk Bethel, Powers for CB competition|last=Root|first=Jess|date=March 26, 2015|work=Revenge of the Birds|access-date=March 27, 2018}}</ref> He started the regular season as the backup to Patrick Peterson and Jerraud Powers.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.ourlads.com/nfldepthcharts/archive/176/ARZ| title=Ourlads.com: Arizona Cardinals depth chart: 10/01/2015| access-date=October 27, 2017| website=ourlads.com}}</ref>
Bethel entered training camp competing with Jerraud Powers for the vacant starting cornerback job left by the departure of Antonio Cromartie.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Root |first=Jess |date=March 26, 2015 |title=BA, Bowles talk Bethel, Powers for CB competition |url=https://www.revengeofthebirds.com/2015/3/26/8294225/jerraud-powers-will-be-tough-to-beat-out-at-cornerback-justin-bethel |access-date=March 27, 2018 |website=Revenge of the Birds}}</ref> He started the regular season as the backup to Patrick Peterson and Jerraud Powers.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Ourlads.com: Arizona Cardinals depth chart: 10/01/2015 |url=http://www.ourlads.com/nfldepthcharts/archive/176/ARZ |access-date=October 27, 2017 |website=ourlads.com}}</ref>


On September 27, 2015, Bethel recorded his first-career interception and returned it for a 21-yard touchdown during a 47–7 victory over the San Francisco 49ers.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.azcardinals.com/news-and-events/article-2/Picking-A-Cardinals-Thrashing-Of-49ers/3444e069-2b9d-4bd1-9bec-10bbf7a93c13|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180328103148/http://www.azcardinals.com/news-and-events/article-2/Picking-A-Cardinals-Thrashing-Of-49ers/3444e069-2b9d-4bd1-9bec-10bbf7a93c13|url-status=dead|archive-date=March 28, 2018|title=Picking A Cardinals' Thrashing Of 49ers|last=Urban|first=Darren|date=September 27, 2015|work=Arizona Cardinals|access-date=March 27, 2018}}</ref> He also knocked the ball from [[DeAndrew White]], but it was recovered by a 49er. On October 26, he ripped the ball from Jeremy Ross and recovered the fumble in a 26–18 win over the [[Baltimore Ravens]], his second forced fumble of the season, and third of his career.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.azcardinals.com/news-and-events/article-2/Special-Teams-Has-Big-Moments-Monday-Night/ec8f5d2e-2ca7-421d-82cc-2a906e58987d|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170530145654/http://www.azcardinals.com/news-and-events/article-2/Special-Teams-Has-Big-Moments-Monday-Night/ec8f5d2e-2ca7-421d-82cc-2a906e58987d|url-status=dead|archive-date=May 30, 2017|title=Special Teams Has Big Moments Monday Night|last=Odegard|first=Kyle|date=October 26, 2015|work=Arizona Cardinals|access-date=March 27, 2018}}</ref> On November 1, he earned his first career start and recorded four solo tackles and two pass deflections in a 34–20 victory against the [[2015 Cleveland Browns season|Cleveland Browns]].<ref>{{cite web|url=http://arizonasports.com/story/429973/cardinals-cb-bethel-looking-forward-to-start-at-cleveland/|title=Cardinals CB Bethel 'looking forward' to start at Cleveland|last=Grialou|first=Craig|date=October 29, 2015|work=Arizona Sports|access-date=March 27, 2018}}</ref> On December 5, the Arizona Cardinals signed Bethel to a three-year, $15 million contract extension with $9 million guaranteed and a $3 million signing bonus.<ref>{{cite web|work=NFL.com|url=http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000594416/article/cardinals-bethel-agree-to-threeyear-15m-extension|title=Cardinals, Bethel agree to three-year, $15M extension|first=Marc|last=Sessler|date=December 5, 2015|access-date=December 5, 2015}}</ref> He became the starting nickelback for the remainder of the season in Week 16 after safety [[Tyrann Mathieu]] tore his [[Anterior cruciate ligament injury|ACL]] and was placed on injured reserve.<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://espn.go.com/blog/nfcwest/post/_/id/121545/cardinals-cb-justin-bethel-getting-used-to-being-picked-on-by-qbs|title=Cardinals CB Justin Bethel getting used to being picked on|last=Weinfuss|first=Josh|date=January 11, 2016|website=ESPN.com|access-date=March 27, 2018}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap3000000606483/article/tyrann-mathieu-will-miss-the-season-with-a-torn-acl|title=Tyrann Mathieu will miss the season with a torn ACL|last=Rosenthal|first=Gregg|date=December 21, 2015|work=NFL.com|access-date=March 27, 2018}}</ref> On December 27, Bethel recorded a career-high eight combined tackles and intercepted a pass attempt by [[Aaron Rodgers]] in a 38–8 win over the [[2015 Green Bay Packers season|Green Bay Packers]].<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.azcardinals.com/news-and-events/article-2/Cardinals-Sack-Packers-Clinch-Bye/e9132fea-0885-4b58-85cd-440362d72350|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180328102531/http://www.azcardinals.com/news-and-events/article-2/Cardinals-Sack-Packers-Clinch-Bye/e9132fea-0885-4b58-85cd-440362d72350|url-status=dead|archive-date=March 28, 2018|title=Cardinals Sack Packers, Clinch Bye|last=Urban|first=Darren|date=December 27, 2015|work=Arizona Cardinals|access-date=March 27, 2018}}</ref> He finished the regular season with career highs in tackles (46), passes defended (9), and interceptions (2), as well as two forced fumbles and a touchdown.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Justin Bethel 2015 Game Log |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/players/B/BethJu00/gamelog/2015/ |access-date=October 30, 2023 |website=Pro-Football-Reference.com |language=en}}</ref>
On September 27, 2015, Bethel recorded his first-career interception and returned it for a 21-yard touchdown during a 47–7 victory over the San Francisco 49ers.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Urban |first=Darren |date=September 27, 2015 |title=Picking A Cardinals' Thrashing Of 49ers |url=http://www.azcardinals.com/news-and-events/article-2/Picking-A-Cardinals-Thrashing-Of-49ers/3444e069-2b9d-4bd1-9bec-10bbf7a93c13 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180328103148/http://www.azcardinals.com/news-and-events/article-2/Picking-A-Cardinals-Thrashing-Of-49ers/3444e069-2b9d-4bd1-9bec-10bbf7a93c13 |archive-date=March 28, 2018 |access-date=March 27, 2018 |website=Arizona Cardinals}}</ref> He also knocked the ball from [[DeAndrew White]], but it was recovered by a 49er. On October 26, he ripped the ball from Jeremy Ross and recovered the fumble in a 26–18 win over the [[Baltimore Ravens]], his second forced fumble of the season, and third of his career.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Odegard |first=Kyle |date=October 26, 2015 |title=Special Teams Has Big Moments Monday Night |url=http://www.azcardinals.com/news-and-events/article-2/Special-Teams-Has-Big-Moments-Monday-Night/ec8f5d2e-2ca7-421d-82cc-2a906e58987d |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170530145654/http://www.azcardinals.com/news-and-events/article-2/Special-Teams-Has-Big-Moments-Monday-Night/ec8f5d2e-2ca7-421d-82cc-2a906e58987d |archive-date=May 30, 2017 |access-date=March 27, 2018 |website=Arizona Cardinals}}</ref> On November 1, he earned his first career start and recorded four solo tackles and two pass deflections in a 34–20 victory against the [[Cleveland Browns]].<ref>{{Cite web |last=Grialou |first=Craig |date=October 29, 2015 |title=Cardinals CB Bethel 'looking forward' to start at Cleveland |url=http://arizonasports.com/story/429973/cardinals-cb-bethel-looking-forward-to-start-at-cleveland/ |access-date=March 27, 2018 |website=Arizona Sports}}</ref> On December 5, the Arizona Cardinals signed Bethel to a three-year, $15 million contract extension with $9 million guaranteed and a $3 million signing bonus.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Sessler |first=Marc |date=December 5, 2015 |title=Cardinals, Bethel agree to three-year, $15M extension |url=https://www.nfl.com/news/cardinals-db-bethel-signs-three-year-15m-extension-0ap3000000594416 |access-date=December 5, 2015 |website=NFL.com}}</ref> He became the starting nickelback for the remainder of the season in Week 16 after safety [[Tyrann Mathieu]] tore his [[Anterior cruciate ligament injury|ACL]] and was placed on injured reserve.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Weinfuss |first=Josh |date=January 11, 2016 |title=Cardinals CB Justin Bethel getting used to being picked on |url=https://www.espn.com/blog/nfcwest/post/_/id/121545/cardinals-cb-justin-bethel-getting-used-to-being-picked-on-by-qbs |access-date=March 27, 2018 |website=ESPN.com}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |last=Rosenthal |first=Gregg |date=December 21, 2015 |title=Tyrann Mathieu will miss the season with a torn ACL |url=https://www.nfl.com/news/tyrann-mathieu-will-miss-the-season-with-a-torn-acl-0ap3000000606483 |access-date=March 27, 2018 |website=NFL.com}}</ref> On December 27, Bethel recorded a career-high eight combined tackles and intercepted a pass attempt by [[Aaron Rodgers]] in a 38–8 win over the [[Green Bay Packers]].<ref>{{Cite web |last=Urban |first=Darren |date=December 27, 2015 |title=Cardinals Sack Packers, Clinch Bye |url=http://www.azcardinals.com/news-and-events/article-2/Cardinals-Sack-Packers-Clinch-Bye/e9132fea-0885-4b58-85cd-440362d72350 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180328102531/http://www.azcardinals.com/news-and-events/article-2/Cardinals-Sack-Packers-Clinch-Bye/e9132fea-0885-4b58-85cd-440362d72350 |archive-date=March 28, 2018 |access-date=March 27, 2018 |website=Arizona Cardinals}}</ref> He finished the regular season with career highs in tackles (46), passes defended (9), and interceptions (2), as well as two forced fumbles and a touchdown.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Justin Bethel 2015 Game Log |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/players/B/BethJu00/gamelog/2015/ |access-date=October 30, 2023 |website=Pro-Football-Reference.com |language=en}}</ref>
[[File:Justin Bethel 2016 Pro Bowl.jpg|thumb|Bethel at the [[2016 Pro Bowl]]]]
He received his third consecutive invitation to the [[2016 Pro Bowl]] as a special teams player.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Urban |first=Darren |date=December 22, 2015 |title=Seven Cardinals Picked For Pro Bowl |url=http://www.azcardinals.com/news-and-events/article-2/Seven-Cardinals-Picked-For-Pro-Bowl/e55031bc-b1ca-4ad8-8dd6-0dad7b9ce67b |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180328102928/http://www.azcardinals.com/news-and-events/article-2/Seven-Cardinals-Picked-For-Pro-Bowl/e55031bc-b1ca-4ad8-8dd6-0dad7b9ce67b |archive-date=March 28, 2018 |access-date=March 27, 2018 |website=Arizona Cardinals}}</ref> The Arizona Cardinals finished the {{NFL Year|2015}} season as NFC West champs after finishing 13–3.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Urban |first=Darren |date=December 20, 2015 |title=Cardinals Batter Eagles, Win NFC West |url=http://www.azcardinals.com/news-and-events/article-2/Cardinals-Batter-Eagles-Win-NFC-West/8ded4fe7-44ee-49af-b210-9f05bfc9fa06 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180328103331/http://www.azcardinals.com/news-and-events/article-2/Cardinals-Batter-Eagles-Win-NFC-West/8ded4fe7-44ee-49af-b210-9f05bfc9fa06 |archive-date=March 28, 2018 |access-date=March 27, 2018 |website=Arizona Cardinals}}</ref> On January 16, 2016, Bethel started in his first career postseason game and collected six solo tackles and defended a pass as the Cardinals defeated the Green Bay Packers 26–20 in overtime, winning the NFC [[2015–16 NFL playoffs#NFC: Arizona Cardinals 26, Green Bay Packers 20 (OT)|Divisional Round]].<ref>{{Cite web |last=Urban |first=Darren |date=January 16, 2016 |title=Crazy Win Puts Cardinals In NFC Championship |url=http://www.azcardinals.com/news-and-events/article-2/Crazy-Win-Puts-Cardinals-In-NFC-Championship/9dde1062-c847-459c-ad8e-7916ba43ae1e |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180328103257/http://www.azcardinals.com/news-and-events/article-2/Crazy-Win-Puts-Cardinals-In-NFC-Championship/9dde1062-c847-459c-ad8e-7916ba43ae1e |archive-date=March 28, 2018 |access-date=March 27, 2018 |website=Arizona Cardinals}}</ref> On January 24, he started the [[2015–16 NFL playoffs#NFC: Carolina Panthers 49, Arizona Cardinals 15|NFC Championship]] against the Panthers and made four combined tackles and a pass deflection during a 15–49 loss.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Urban |first=Darren |date=January 24, 2016 |title=Cardinals' Season Ends Without A Ring |url=http://www.azcardinals.com/news-and-events/article-2/Cardinals-Season-Ends-Without-A-Ring/36f65097-c9fe-4eb9-8c77-7aee3c9d230c |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180328103323/http://www.azcardinals.com/news-and-events/article-2/Cardinals-Season-Ends-Without-A-Ring/36f65097-c9fe-4eb9-8c77-7aee3c9d230c |archive-date=March 28, 2018 |access-date=March 27, 2018 |website=Arizona Cardinals}}</ref>


In 2015, his high school alma mater, [[Blythewood High School]], retired his jersey number 31.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Bezjak |first=Lou |date=October 28, 2015 |title=Blythewood to retire Bethel's jersey |url=http://www.thestate.com/sports/high-school/prep-football/article41772156.html |access-date=March 27, 2018 |website=The State}}</ref>
He received his third consecutive invitation to the [[2016 Pro Bowl]] as a special teams player.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.azcardinals.com/news-and-events/article-2/Seven-Cardinals-Picked-For-Pro-Bowl/e55031bc-b1ca-4ad8-8dd6-0dad7b9ce67b|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180328102928/http://www.azcardinals.com/news-and-events/article-2/Seven-Cardinals-Picked-For-Pro-Bowl/e55031bc-b1ca-4ad8-8dd6-0dad7b9ce67b|url-status=dead|archive-date=March 28, 2018|title=Seven Cardinals Picked For Pro Bowl|last=Urban|first=Darren|date=December 22, 2015|work=Arizona Cardinals|access-date=March 27, 2018}}</ref> The Arizona Cardinals finished the {{NFL Year|2015}} season as NFC West champs after finishing 13–3.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.azcardinals.com/news-and-events/article-2/Cardinals-Batter-Eagles-Win-NFC-West/8ded4fe7-44ee-49af-b210-9f05bfc9fa06|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180328103331/http://www.azcardinals.com/news-and-events/article-2/Cardinals-Batter-Eagles-Win-NFC-West/8ded4fe7-44ee-49af-b210-9f05bfc9fa06|url-status=dead|archive-date=March 28, 2018|title=Cardinals Batter Eagles, Win NFC West|last=Urban|first=Darren|date=December 20, 2015|work=Arizona Cardinals|access-date=March 27, 2018}}</ref> On January 16, 2016, Bethel started in his first career postseason game and collected six solo tackles and defended a pass as the Cardinals defeated the Green Bay Packers 26–20 in overtime, winning the NFC [[2015–16_NFL_playoffs#NFC:_Arizona_Cardinals_26,_Green_Bay_Packers_20_(OT)|Divisional Round]].<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.azcardinals.com/news-and-events/article-2/Crazy-Win-Puts-Cardinals-In-NFC-Championship/9dde1062-c847-459c-ad8e-7916ba43ae1e|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180328103257/http://www.azcardinals.com/news-and-events/article-2/Crazy-Win-Puts-Cardinals-In-NFC-Championship/9dde1062-c847-459c-ad8e-7916ba43ae1e|url-status=dead|archive-date=March 28, 2018|title=Crazy Win Puts Cardinals In NFC Championship|last=Urban|first=Darren|date=January 16, 2016|work=Arizona Cardinals|access-date=March 27, 2018}}</ref> On January 24, he started the [[2015–16_NFL_playoffs#NFC:_Carolina_Panthers_49,_Arizona_Cardinals_15|NFC Championship]] against the [[2015 Carolina Panthers season|Carolina Panthers]] and made four combined tackles and a pass deflection during a 15–49 loss.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.azcardinals.com/news-and-events/article-2/Cardinals-Season-Ends-Without-A-Ring/36f65097-c9fe-4eb9-8c77-7aee3c9d230c|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180328103323/http://www.azcardinals.com/news-and-events/article-2/Cardinals-Season-Ends-Without-A-Ring/36f65097-c9fe-4eb9-8c77-7aee3c9d230c|url-status=dead|archive-date=March 28, 2018|title=Cardinals' Season Ends Without A Ring|last=Urban|first=Darren|date=January 24, 2016|work=Arizona Cardinals|access-date=March 27, 2018}}</ref>

In 2015, his high school alma mater, [[Blythewood High School]], retired his jersey number 31.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.thestate.com/sports/high-school/prep-football/article41772156.html|title=Blythewood to retire Bethel's jersey|last=Bezjak|first=Lou|date=October 28, 2015|work=The State|access-date=March 27, 2018}}</ref>


====2016====
====2016====
On April 20, 2016, it was reported that Bethel had undergone surgery earlier in the week to repair slight [[fracture]] in his [[ankle]] that he had suffered on November 23, 2015, against the [[2015 Cincinnati Bengals season|Cincinnati Bengals]]. He missed organized team activities and the first three weeks of training camp.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.azcentral.com/story/sports/nfl/cardinals/2016/04/20/cardinals-patrick-peterson-justin-bethel-undergo-surgeries/83284706/|title=Cardinals' Patrick Peterson, Justin Bethel undergo surgeries|author=Somers|first=Kent|date=April 20, 2016|website=AZCentral|access-date=October 23, 2016}}</ref> Bethel was expected to be the Arizona Cardinal's starting cornerback alongside Patrick Peterson after Jerraud Powers had departed through free agency.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Arizona Cardinals Depth Chart |url=http://www.ourlads.com/nfldepthcharts/depthchart/ARZ |access-date=October 23, 2016 |website=Ourlads.com}}</ref> Upon his arrival at training camp, he competed with [[Mike Jenkins (American football)|Mike Jenkins]], [[Asa Jackson]], [[Tharold Simon]], and [[Brandon Williams (cornerback, born 1992)|Brandon Williams]]. He began the {{NFL Year|2016}} season as the backup to Patrick Peterson and Brandon Williams.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Mann |first=Alex |date=September 5, 2016 |title=Arizona Cardinals release first Depth Chart of 2016 |url=https://www.revengeofthebirds.com/platform/amp/2016/9/5/12802774/arizona-cardinals-release-first-depth-chart-of-2016 |access-date=October 27, 2017 |website=Revenge of the Birds}}</ref>
On April 20, 2016, it was reported that Bethel had undergone surgery earlier in the week to repair slight [[fracture]] in his [[ankle]] that he had suffered on November 23, 2015, against the [[Cincinnati Bengals]]. He missed organized team activities and the first three weeks of training camp.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Somers |first=Kent |date=April 20, 2016 |title=Cardinals' Patrick Peterson, Justin Bethel undergo surgeries |url=http://www.azcentral.com/story/sports/nfl/cardinals/2016/04/20/cardinals-patrick-peterson-justin-bethel-undergo-surgeries/83284706/ |access-date=October 23, 2016 |website=AZCentral}}</ref> Bethel was expected to be the Arizona Cardinal's starting cornerback alongside Patrick Peterson after Jerraud Powers had departed through free agency.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Arizona Cardinals Depth Chart |url=http://www.ourlads.com/nfldepthcharts/depthchart/ARZ |access-date=October 23, 2016 |website=Ourlads.com}}</ref> Upon his arrival at training camp, he competed with [[Mike Jenkins (American football)|Mike Jenkins]], [[Asa Jackson]], [[Tharold Simon]], and [[Brandon Williams (cornerback, born 1992)|Brandon Williams]]. He began the {{NFL Year|2016}} season as the backup to Patrick Peterson and Brandon Williams.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Mann |first=Alex |date=September 5, 2016 |title=Arizona Cardinals release first Depth Chart of 2016 |url=https://www.revengeofthebirds.com/platform/amp/2016/9/5/12802774/arizona-cardinals-release-first-depth-chart-of-2016 |access-date=October 27, 2017 |website=Revenge of the Birds}}</ref>


On November 13, he earned his first start of the season and recorded four solo tackles and deflected a pass during a 23–20 victory over the [[2016 San Francisco 49ers season|San Francisco 49ers]] On November 20, Bethel blocked a [[Kai Forbath]] extra point in the second quarter against the [[2016 Minnesota Vikings season|Minnesota Vikings]], marking his fourth career blocked kick.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.twincities.com/2016/11/20/bob-sansevere-qa-with-new-vikings-kicker-kai-forbath/|title=Q&A with new Vikings kicker Kai Forbath|last=Sansevere|first=Bob|date=November 21, 2016|work=Twin Cities|access-date=March 27, 2018}}</ref> On January 1, 2017, Bethel returned an interception for a 66-yard touchdown in the fourth quarter of a 44–6 victory over the [[Los Angeles Rams]].<ref>{{Cite web |last=Kalbrosky |first=Bryan |date=January 1, 2017 |title=Rams finish season 1-6 at home after getting destroyed by Cardinals |url=https://theramswire.usatoday.com/2017/01/01/los-angeles-rams-arizona-cardinals-scoring-summary-game-updates/ |access-date=March 27, 2018 |website=Rams Wire|publisher=USA Today}}</ref> The Cardinals finished with a 7-8-1 record and did not qualify for the playoffs.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.revengeofthebirds.com/2016/12/19/14004660/arizona-cardinals-officially-eliminated-from-nfl-playoffs-for-2016|title=Arizona Cardinals Officially Eliminated from NFL Playoffs for 2016|last=Cox|first=Seth|date=December 19, 2016|work=Revenge of the Birds|access-date=March 27, 2018}}</ref> He finished the 2016 season with 39 tackles, six pass deflections, an interception, and a touchdown.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Justin Bethel 2016 Game Log |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/players/B/BethJu00/gamelog/2016/ |access-date=October 30, 2023 |website=Pro-Football-Reference.com |language=en}}</ref>
On November 13, he earned his first start of the season and recorded four solo tackles and deflected a pass during a 23–20 victory over the [[San Francisco 49ers]] On November 20, Bethel blocked a [[Kai Forbath]] extra point in the second quarter against the [[Minnesota Vikings]], marking his fourth career blocked kick.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Sansevere |first=Bob |date=November 21, 2016 |title=Q&A with new Vikings kicker Kai Forbath |url=https://www.twincities.com/2016/11/20/bob-sansevere-qa-with-new-vikings-kicker-kai-forbath/ |access-date=March 27, 2018 |website=Twin Cities}}</ref> On January 1, 2017, Bethel returned an interception for a 66-yard touchdown in the fourth quarter of a 44–6 victory over the [[Los Angeles Rams]].<ref>{{Cite web |last=Kalbrosky |first=Bryan |date=January 1, 2017 |title=Rams finish season 1–6 at home after getting destroyed by Cardinals |url=https://theramswire.usatoday.com/2017/01/01/los-angeles-rams-arizona-cardinals-scoring-summary-game-updates/ |access-date=March 27, 2018 |website=Rams Wire |publisher=USA Today}}</ref> The Cardinals finished with a 7–8–1 record and did not qualify for the playoffs.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Cox |first=Seth |date=December 19, 2016 |title=Arizona Cardinals Officially Eliminated from NFL Playoffs for 2016 |url=https://www.revengeofthebirds.com/2016/12/19/14004660/arizona-cardinals-officially-eliminated-from-nfl-playoffs-for-2016 |access-date=March 27, 2018 |website=Revenge of the Birds}}</ref> He finished the 2016 season with 39 tackles, six pass deflections, an interception, and a touchdown.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Justin Bethel 2016 Game Log |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/players/B/BethJu00/gamelog/2016/ |access-date=October 30, 2023 |website=Pro-Football-Reference.com |language=en}}</ref>


====2017====
====2017====
Bethel entered training camp in {{NFL Year|2017}} competing against Brandon Williams, [[Tramon Williams]], and [[Harlan Miller]] for the vacant starting cornerback position after [[Marcus Cooper]] departed for the [[2017 Chicago Bears season|Chicago Bears]] during free agency.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.azcardinals.com/news-and-events/article-2/Position-Battles-To-Watch-At-Training-Camp/f399cbee-8f1b-4d01-916c-be8a1c5df553|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180328103018/http://www.azcardinals.com/news-and-events/article-2/Position-Battles-To-Watch-At-Training-Camp/f399cbee-8f1b-4d01-916c-be8a1c5df553|url-status=dead|archive-date=March 28, 2018|title=Position Battles To Watch At Training Camp|last=Odegard|first=Kyle|date=July 19, 2017|work=Arizona Cardinals|access-date=March 27, 2018}}</ref> Head coach Bruce Arians named Bethel the starting cornerback, along with Patrick Peterson, to begin the regular season.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://arizonasports.com/story/1217270/arians-cardinals-justin-bethel-cornerback-wide-receivers/|title=Arians names Justin Bethel the Cardinals' No. 2 cornerback|last=Grialou|first=Craig|date=August 24, 2017|work=Arizona Sports|access-date=March 27, 2018}}</ref> It marked the first time he had been named the starting cornerback to begin the regular season in Bethel's career.
Bethel entered training camp in {{NFL Year|2017}} competing against Brandon Williams, [[Tramon Williams]], and [[Harlan Miller]] for the vacant starting cornerback position after [[Marcus Cooper]] departed for the [[2017 Chicago Bears season|Chicago Bears]] during free agency.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Odegard |first=Kyle |date=July 19, 2017 |title=Position Battles To Watch At Training Camp |url=http://www.azcardinals.com/news-and-events/article-2/Position-Battles-To-Watch-At-Training-Camp/f399cbee-8f1b-4d01-916c-be8a1c5df553 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180328103018/http://www.azcardinals.com/news-and-events/article-2/Position-Battles-To-Watch-At-Training-Camp/f399cbee-8f1b-4d01-916c-be8a1c5df553 |archive-date=March 28, 2018 |access-date=March 27, 2018 |website=Arizona Cardinals}}</ref> Head coach Bruce Arians named Bethel the starting cornerback, along with Patrick Peterson, to begin the regular season.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Grialou |first=Craig |date=August 24, 2017 |title=Arians names Justin Bethel the Cardinals' No. 2 cornerback |url=http://arizonasports.com/story/1217270/arians-cardinals-justin-bethel-cornerback-wide-receivers/ |access-date=March 27, 2018 |website=Arizona Sports}}</ref> It marked the first time he had been named the starting cornerback to begin the regular season in Bethel's career.


He started in the Cardinals' season opening 35–23 loss to the [[2017 Detroit Lions season|Detroit Lions]] and returned an interception off [[Matthew Stafford]] for an 82-yard touchdown in the first quarter.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.azcardinals.com/news-and-events/article-2/Rough-Day-For-Cardinals-In-Detroit/3ce9979f-c584-4d1a-8796-4c170ca2c13d|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180328103035/http://www.azcardinals.com/news-and-events/article-2/Rough-Day-For-Cardinals-In-Detroit/3ce9979f-c584-4d1a-8796-4c170ca2c13d|url-status=dead|archive-date=March 28, 2018|title=Rough Day For Cardinals In Detroit|last=Urban|first=Darren|date=September 10, 2017|work=Arizona Cardinals|access-date=March 27, 2018}}</ref> He lost the starting job and was demoted to the team's No. 3 cornerback in Week 7 due to the emergence of the veteran Tramon Williams.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.azcardinals.com/news-and-events/article-2/London-Falling-Cardinals-Lose-Carson-Palmer/7805849f-3dc0-4ea5-a43f-69f8f568293f|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180328103333/http://www.azcardinals.com/news-and-events/article-2/London-Falling-Cardinals-Lose-Carson-Palmer/7805849f-3dc0-4ea5-a43f-69f8f568293f|url-status=dead|archive-date=March 28, 2018|title=London Falling: Cardinals Lose Carson Palmer|last=Urban|first=Darren|date=October 22, 2017|work=Arizona Cardinals|access-date=March 27, 2018}}</ref> The Cardinals finished with an 8–8 record and did not qualify for the playoffs.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.revengeofthebirds.com/2017/12/18/16789418/arizona-cardinals-officially-eliminated-from-playoff-contention|title=Arizona Cardinals officially eliminated from playoff contention|last=Cox|first=Seth|date=December 18, 2017|work=Revenge of the Birds|access-date=March 27, 2018}}</ref> He finished the 2017 season with 41 tackles, four pass deflections, an interception, and a touchdown.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Justin Bethel 2017 Game Log |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/players/B/BethJu00/gamelog/2017/ |access-date=October 30, 2023 |website=Pro-Football-Reference.com |language=en}}</ref>
He started in the Cardinals' season opening 35–23 loss to the Lions and returned an interception off [[Matthew Stafford]] for an 82-yard touchdown in the first quarter.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Urban |first=Darren |date=September 10, 2017 |title=Rough Day For Cardinals In Detroit |url=http://www.azcardinals.com/news-and-events/article-2/Rough-Day-For-Cardinals-In-Detroit/3ce9979f-c584-4d1a-8796-4c170ca2c13d |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180328103035/http://www.azcardinals.com/news-and-events/article-2/Rough-Day-For-Cardinals-In-Detroit/3ce9979f-c584-4d1a-8796-4c170ca2c13d |archive-date=March 28, 2018 |access-date=March 27, 2018 |website=Arizona Cardinals}}</ref> He lost the starting job and was demoted to the team's No. 3 cornerback in Week 7 due to the emergence of the veteran Tramon Williams.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Urban |first=Darren |date=October 22, 2017 |title=London Falling: Cardinals Lose Carson Palmer |url=http://www.azcardinals.com/news-and-events/article-2/London-Falling-Cardinals-Lose-Carson-Palmer/7805849f-3dc0-4ea5-a43f-69f8f568293f |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180328103333/http://www.azcardinals.com/news-and-events/article-2/London-Falling-Cardinals-Lose-Carson-Palmer/7805849f-3dc0-4ea5-a43f-69f8f568293f |archive-date=March 28, 2018 |access-date=March 27, 2018 |website=Arizona Cardinals}}</ref> The Cardinals finished with an 8–8 record and did not qualify for the playoffs.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Cox |first=Seth |date=December 18, 2017 |title=Arizona Cardinals officially eliminated from playoff contention |url=https://www.revengeofthebirds.com/2017/12/18/16789418/arizona-cardinals-officially-eliminated-from-playoff-contention |access-date=March 27, 2018 |website=Revenge of the Birds}}</ref> He finished the 2017 season with 41 tackles, four pass deflections, an interception, and a touchdown.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Justin Bethel 2017 Game Log |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/players/B/BethJu00/gamelog/2017/ |access-date=October 30, 2023 |website=Pro-Football-Reference.com |language=en}}</ref>


===Atlanta Falcons===
===Atlanta Falcons===
On March 24, 2018, Bethel signed with the [[Atlanta Falcons]].<ref>{{cite web|title=Falcons agree to terms with former Arizona Cardinals cornerback Justin Bethel|url=http://www.atlantafalcons.com/news/article-1/NFL-free-agency-Falcons-agree-to-terms-with-former-Arizona-Cardinals-cornerback-Justin-Bethel/dc0ef2fe-7044-4a88-ae36-ceaf08fe5650|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180401043430/http://www.atlantafalcons.com/news/article-1/NFL-free-agency-Falcons-agree-to-terms-with-former-Arizona-Cardinals-cornerback-Justin-Bethel/dc0ef2fe-7044-4a88-ae36-ceaf08fe5650|url-status=dead|archive-date=April 1, 2018|author=McFadden, Will|website=AtlantaFalcons.com|date=March 24, 2018}}</ref> He played in 14 games primarily on special teams, recording 14 tackles.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Justin Bethel 2018 Game Log |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/players/B/BethJu00/gamelog/2018/ |access-date=October 30, 2023 |website=Pro-Football-Reference.com |language=en}}</ref>
On March 24, 2018, Bethel signed with the [[Atlanta Falcons]].<ref>{{Cite web |last=McFadden, Will |date=March 24, 2018 |title=Falcons agree to terms with former Arizona Cardinals cornerback Justin Bethel |url=http://www.atlantafalcons.com/news/article-1/NFL-free-agency-Falcons-agree-to-terms-with-former-Arizona-Cardinals-cornerback-Justin-Bethel/dc0ef2fe-7044-4a88-ae36-ceaf08fe5650 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180401043430/http://www.atlantafalcons.com/news/article-1/NFL-free-agency-Falcons-agree-to-terms-with-former-Arizona-Cardinals-cornerback-Justin-Bethel/dc0ef2fe-7044-4a88-ae36-ceaf08fe5650 |archive-date=April 1, 2018 |website=AtlantaFalcons.com}}</ref> He played in 14 games primarily on special teams, recording 14 tackles.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Justin Bethel 2018 Game Log |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/players/B/BethJu00/gamelog/2018/ |access-date=October 30, 2023 |website=Pro-Football-Reference.com |language=en}}</ref>


===Baltimore Ravens ===
===Baltimore Ravens ===
On March 15, 2019, Bethel signed a two-year contract with the [[Baltimore Ravens]].<ref>{{Cite web |last=Brown |first=Clifton |date=March 15, 2019 |title=Ravens Agree to Terms With Special Teams Standout Justin Bethel |url=https://www.baltimoreravens.com/news/ravens-agree-to-terms-with-special-teams-standout-justin-bethel |access-date=October 29, 2023 |website=BaltimoreRavens.com}}</ref> He was released on October 21, 2019.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Brown |first=Clifton |date=October 21, 2019 |title=Ravens Waive Special Teams Standout Justin Bethel to Save Compensatory Pick |url=https://www.baltimoreravens.com/news/ravens-waive-special-teams-standout-justin-bethel |access-date=October 21, 2019 |website=BaltimoreRavens.com}}</ref>
On March 15, 2019, Bethel signed a two-year contract with the [[Baltimore Ravens]].<ref>{{Cite web |last=Brown |first=Clifton |date=March 15, 2019 |title=Ravens Agree to Terms With Special Teams Standout Justin Bethel |url=https://www.baltimoreravens.com/news/ravens-agree-to-terms-with-special-teams-standout-justin-bethel |access-date=October 29, 2023 |website=BaltimoreRavens.com}}</ref> He was released on October 21, 2019.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Brown |first=Clifton |date=October 21, 2019 |title=Ravens Waive Special Teams Standout Justin Bethel to Save Compensatory Pick |url=https://www.baltimoreravens.com/news/ravens-waive-special-teams-standout-justin-bethel |access-date=October 21, 2019 |website=BaltimoreRavens.com |archive-date=October 22, 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20191022015138/https://www.baltimoreravens.com/news/ravens-waive-special-teams-standout-justin-bethel |url-status=dead }}</ref>


===New England Patriots===
===New England Patriots===
On October 22, 2019, Bethel signed a two-year contract with the [[New England Patriots]].<ref>{{Cite web |last=Price |first=Christopher |date=October 22, 2019 |title=Patriots signing Pro Bowl special teamer Justin Bethel, reports say |url=https://www.boston.com/sports/new-england-patriots/2019/10/22/patriots-signing-pro-bowl-special-teamer-justin-bethel-reports-say |access-date=October 29, 2023 |website=Boston Globe}}</ref>
On October 22, 2019, Bethel signed a two-year contract with the [[New England Patriots]].<ref>{{Cite web |last=Price |first=Christopher |date=October 22, 2019 |title=Patriots signing Pro Bowl special teamer Justin Bethel, reports say |url=https://www.boston.com/sports/new-england-patriots/2019/10/22/patriots-signing-pro-bowl-special-teamer-justin-bethel-reports-say |access-date=October 29, 2023 |website=Boston Globe}}</ref>
Bethel made his debut with the Patriots in week 9 against the [[2019 Baltimore Ravens season|Baltimore Ravens]]. In the game, Bethel recovered a muffed punt by return man [[Cyrus Jones]] in the 37–20 loss.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.espn.com/nfl/recap?gameId=401127899 |title=Unbeaten no more, Patriots fall to Jackson and Ravens 37-20 |date=November 3, 2019 |website=ESPN.com|agency=Associated Press |access-date=November 3, 2019}}</ref>
Bethel made his debut with the Patriots in week 9 against the [[Baltimore Ravens]]. In the game, Bethel recovered a muffed punt by return man [[Cyrus Jones]] in the 37–20 loss.<ref>{{Cite web |date=November 3, 2019 |title=Unbeaten no more, Patriots fall to Jackson and Ravens 37–20 |url=https://www.espn.com/nfl/recap?gameId=401127899 |access-date=November 3, 2019 |website=ESPN.com |agency=Associated Press}}</ref>
In week 15 against the [[2019 Cincinnati Bengals season|Cincinnati Bengals]], Bethel recovered a punt muffed by punt returner [[Alex Erickson]] during the 34–13 win.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.espn.com/nfl/recap?gameId=401127955 |title=Brady throws 2 TDs, Patriots beat Bengals to clinch playoffs |date=December 15, 2019 |website=ESPN.com|agency=Associated Press |access-date=December 15, 2019}}</ref> In the 2019 season, he appeared in all 16 games, mainly in a special teams role. He had three fumble recoveries on the year.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Justin Bethel 2019 Game Log |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/players/B/BethJu00/gamelog/2019/ |access-date=October 30, 2023 |website=Pro-Football-Reference.com |language=en}}</ref>
In week 15 against the Bengals, Bethel recovered a punt muffed by punt returner [[Alex Erickson]] during the 34–13 win.<ref>{{Cite web |date=December 15, 2019 |title=Brady throws 2 TDs, Patriots beat Bengals to clinch playoffs |url=https://www.espn.com/nfl/recap?gameId=401127955 |access-date=December 15, 2019 |website=ESPN.com |agency=Associated Press}}</ref> In the 2019 season, he appeared in all 16 games, mainly in a special teams role. He had three fumble recoveries on the year.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Justin Bethel 2019 Game Log |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/players/B/BethJu00/gamelog/2019/ |access-date=October 30, 2023 |website=Pro-Football-Reference.com |language=en}}</ref>


In the 2020 season, Bethel appeared in all 16 games in mainly a special teams role.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Justin Bethel 2020 Game Log |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/players/B/BethJu00/gamelog/2020/ |access-date=October 30, 2023 |website=Pro-Football-Reference.com |language=en}}</ref>
In the 2020 season, Bethel appeared in all 16 games in mainly a special teams role.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Justin Bethel 2020 Game Log |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/players/B/BethJu00/gamelog/2020/ |access-date=October 30, 2023 |website=Pro-Football-Reference.com |language=en}}</ref>


On March 12, 2021, Bethel re-signed with the Patriots on a three-year, $6 million contract.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.patriots.com/news/report-patriots-re-sign-justin-bethel|work=Patriots.com|title=Report: Patriots re-sign Justin Bethel|date=March 12, 2021|accessdate=March 12, 2021|first=Mike|last=Dussault}}</ref> In the 2021 season, he played in all 17 games with a majority of his production coming on special teams.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Justin Bethel 2021 Game Log |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/players/B/BethJu00/gamelog/2021/ |access-date=October 30, 2023 |website=Pro-Football-Reference.com |language=en}}</ref>
On March 12, 2021, Bethel re-signed with the Patriots on a three-year, $6 million contract.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Dussault |first=Mike |date=March 12, 2021 |title=Report: Patriots re-sign Justin Bethel |url=https://www.patriots.com/news/report-patriots-re-sign-justin-bethel |access-date=March 12, 2021 |website=Patriots.com}}</ref> In the 2021 season, he played in all 17 games with a majority of his production coming on special teams.<ref>{{Cite web |title=Justin Bethel 2021 Game Log |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/players/B/BethJu00/gamelog/2021/ |access-date=October 30, 2023 |website=Pro-Football-Reference.com |language=en}}</ref>


On August 30, 2022, Bethel was released by the Patriots.<ref>{{Cite web |date=August 30, 2022 |title=Patriots Make Roster Moves to Reach 53-Man Roster Limit |url=https://www.patriots.com/news/patriots-make-roster-moves-to-reach-53-man-roster-limit |access-date=October 29, 2023 |website=Patriots.com}}</ref>
On August 30, 2022, Bethel was released by the Patriots.<ref>{{Cite web |date=August 30, 2022 |title=Patriots Make Roster Moves to Reach 53-Man Roster Limit |url=https://www.patriots.com/news/patriots-make-roster-moves-to-reach-53-man-roster-limit |access-date=October 29, 2023 |website=Patriots.com}}</ref>
Line 146: Line 146:


Bethel re-signed with the Dolphins on March 24, 2023.<ref>{{Cite web |date=March 24, 2023 |title=Miami Dolphins Re-Sign Justin Bethel |url=https://www.miamidolphins.com/news/miami-dolphins-re-sign-justin-bethel |access-date=October 29, 2023 |website=MiamiDolphins.com}}</ref>
Bethel re-signed with the Dolphins on March 24, 2023.<ref>{{Cite web |date=March 24, 2023 |title=Miami Dolphins Re-Sign Justin Bethel |url=https://www.miamidolphins.com/news/miami-dolphins-re-sign-justin-bethel |access-date=October 29, 2023 |website=MiamiDolphins.com}}</ref>

==NFL career statistics==
{| class="wikitable mw-collapsible mw-collapsed"
! colspan="2"| Legend
|-
| '''Bold'''
| Career high
|}

===Regular season===
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
|-
!rowspan="2"| Year
!rowspan="2"| Team
!colspan="2"| Games
!colspan="5"| Tackles
!colspan="5"| Interceptions
!colspan="4"| Fumbles
|-
! GP !! GS !! Cmb !! Solo !! Ast !! Sck !! TFL !! Int !! Yds !! TD !! Lng !! PD !! FF !! FR !! Yds !! TD
|-
! [[2012 NFL season|2012]] !! [[2012 Arizona Cardinals season|ARI]]
| 16 || 0 || 13 || 12 || 1 || 0.0 || 0 || 0 || 0 || 0 || 0 || 0 || 0 || 0 || 0 || 0
|-
! [[2013 NFL season|2013]] !! [[2013 Arizona Cardinals season|ARI]]
| 16 || 0 || 21 || 17 || 4 || 0.0 || 0 || 0 || 0 || 0 || 0 || 0 || 0 || 1 || -3 || 0
|-
! [[2014 NFL season|2014]] !! [[2014 Arizona Cardinals season|ARI]]
| 16 || 0 || 25 || 21 || 4 || 0.0 || 0 || 0 || 0 || 0 || 0 || 0 || 1 || 1 || 0 || 0
|-
! [[2015 NFL season|2015]] !! [[2015 Arizona Cardinals season|ARI]]
| 16 || 5 || '''46''' || '''44''' || 2 || 0.0 || 0 || '''2''' || 21 || '''1''' || 21 || '''9''' || '''2''' || '''2''' || 0 || 0
|-
! [[2016 NFL season|2016]] !! [[2016 Arizona Cardinals season|ARI]]
| 16 || 3 || 39 || 37 || 2 || 0.0 || '''3''' || 1 || 66 || '''1''' || 66 || 6 || 1 || 1 || 0 || 0
|-
! [[2017 NFL season|2017]] !! [[2017 Arizona Cardinals season|ARI]]
| 16 || '''6''' || 41 || 29 || '''12''' || 0.0 || 1 || 1 || '''82''' || '''1''' || '''82''' || 4 || 0 || 0 || 0 || 0
|-
! [[2018 NFL season|2018]] !! [[2018 Atlanta Falcons season|ATL]]
| 14 || 0 || 14 || 12 || 2 || 0.0 || 0 || 0 || 0 || 0 || 0 || 0 || 0 || 0 || 0 || 0
|-
! rowspan="2" | [[2019 NFL season|2019]] !! [[2019 Baltimore Ravens season|BAL]]
| 7 || 0 || 6 || 4 || 2 || 0.0 || 0 || 0 || 0 || 0 || 0 || 0 || 0 || 1 || 0 || 0
|-
! [[2019 New England Patriots season|NWE]]
| 9 || 0 || 6 || 5 || 1 || 0.0 || 0 || 0 || 0 || 0 || 0 || 0 || 0 || '''2''' || 0 || 0
|-
! [[2020 NFL season|2020]] !! [[2020 New England Patriots season|NWE]]
| 16 || 0 || 14 || 13 || 1 || 0.0 || 0 || 0 || 0 || 0 || 0 || 0 || 0 || 0 || 0 || 0
|-
! [[2021 NFL season|2021]] !! [[2021 New England Patriots season|NWE]]
| '''17''' || 0 || 12 || 9 || 3 || 0.0 || 0 || 0 || 0 || 0 || 0 || 1 || 1 || 0 || 0 || 0
|-
! [[2022 NFL season|2022]] !! [[2022 Miami Dolphins season|MIA]]
| '''17''' || 0 || 26 || 17 || 9 || 0.0 || 0 || 1 || 11 || 0 || 11 || 4 || 0 || 0 || 0 || 0
|-
! [[2023 NFL season|2023]] !! [[2023 Miami Dolphins season|MIA]]
| '''17''' || 1 || 19 || 15 || 4 || '''0.5''' || 2 || 0 || 0 || 0 || 0 || 1 || 0 || 0 || 0 || 0
|-
! colspan="2"| !! 193 !! 15 !! 282 !! 235 !! 47 !! 0.5 !! 6 !! 5 !! 180 !! 3 !! 82 !! 25 !! 5 !! 8 !! -3 !! 0
|}

===Playoffs===
{| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center"
|-
!rowspan="2"| Year
!rowspan="2"| Team
!colspan="2"| Games
!colspan="5"| Tackles
!colspan="5"| Interceptions
!colspan="4"| Fumbles
|-
! GP !! GS !! Cmb !! Solo !! Ast !! Sck !! TFL !! Int !! Yds !! TD !! Lng !! PD !! FF !! FR !! Yds !! TD
|-
! [[2014 NFL season|2014]] !! [[2014 Arizona Cardinals season|ARI]]
| 1 || 0 || 1 || 1 || 0 || 0.0 || '''1''' || 0 || 0 || 0 || 0 || 0 || 0 || '''1''' || 0 || 0
|-
! [[2015 NFL season|2015]] !! [[2015 Arizona Cardinals season|ARI]]
| '''2''' || '''2''' || '''10''' || '''10''' || 0 || 0.0 || 0 || 0 || 0 || 0 || 0 || '''2''' || 0 || 0 || 0 || 0
|-
! [[2019 NFL season|2019]] !! [[2019 New England Patriots season|NWE]]
| 1 || 0 || 0 || 0 || 0 || 0.0 || 0 || 0 || 0 || 0 || 0 || 0 || 0 || 0 || 0 || 0
|-
! [[2021 NFL season|2021]] !! [[2021 New England Patriots season|NWE]]
| 1 || 0 || 0 || 0 || 0 || 0.0 || 0 || 0 || 0 || 0 || 0 || 0 || 0 || 0 || 0 || 0
|-
! [[2022 NFL season|2022]] !! [[2022 Miami Dolphins season|MIA]]
| 1 || 0 || 0 || 0 || 0 || 0.0 || 0 || 0 || 0 || 0 || 0 || 0 || 0 || 0 || 0 || 0
|-
! [[2023 NFL season|2023]] !! [[2023 Miami Dolphins season|MIA]]
| 1 || 0 || 0 || 0 || 0 || 0.0 || 0 || 0 || 0 || 0 || 0 || 0 || 0 || 0 || 0 || 0
|-
! colspan="2"| !! 7 !! 2 !! 11 !! 11 !! 0 !! 0.0 !! 1 !! 0 !! 0 !! 0 !! 0 !! 2 !! 0 !! 1 !! 0 !! 0
|}


==References==
==References==
Line 151: Line 246:


==External links==
==External links==
{{commons}}
*[https://www.miamidolphins.com/team/players-roster/justin-bethel/ Miami Dolphins bio]
*[http://www.gobluehose.com/ViewArticle.dbml?SPSID=89740&SPID=10734&DB_LANG=C&DB_OEM_ID=18100&ATCLID=1480308&Q_SEASON=2011 Presbyterian Blue Hose bio]
*[http://www.gobluehose.com/ViewArticle.dbml?SPSID=89740&SPID=10734&DB_LANG=C&DB_OEM_ID=18100&ATCLID=1480308&Q_SEASON=2011 Presbyterian Blue Hose bio]


{{Arizona Cardinals 2012 draft navbox}}
{{Arizona Cardinals 2012 draft navbox}}
{{Miami Dolphins roster navbox}}


{{DEFAULTSORT:Bethel, Justin}}
{{DEFAULTSORT:Bethel, Justin}}

Latest revision as of 03:45, 19 November 2024

Justin Bethel
refer to caption
Bethel in 2014
Personal information
Born: (1990-06-17) June 17, 1990 (age 34)
Sumter, South Carolina, U.S.
Height:6 ft 0 in (1.83 m)
Weight:195 lb (88 kg)
Career information
High school:Blythewood
(Blythewood, South Carolina)
College:Presbyterian (2008–2011)
Position:Cornerback
Special teamer
NFL draft:2012 / round: 6 / pick: 177
Career history
Career highlights and awards
Career NFL statistics as of 2024
Total tackles:282
Sacks:0.5
Forced fumbles:5
Fumble recoveries:8
Pass deflections:25
Interceptions:5
Defensive touchdowns:3
Stats at Pro Football Reference

Justin Andrew Bethel[1] (born June 17, 1990) is an American professional football cornerback and special teamer. He played college football for the Presbyterian Blue Hose and was selected by the Arizona Cardinals in the sixth round of the 2012 NFL draft.

Early life

[edit]

Bethel was born in Sumter, South Carolina, and at age 6 he moved with his family to Columbia.[2] He started playing football at age 11 when he was in sixth grade. He attended Blythewood High School[2] where in 2007 he was named Blythewood's Defensive Player of the Year and Most Improved Defensive Player. He helped the team win the State Championship in 2006.[3]

College career

[edit]

Bethel did not receive much interest from college football programs, and he planned to study culinary arts at Johnson & Wales University, until his high school coach, former Clemson co-offensive coordinator and USF head coach Jeff Scott, was hired to be a coach for the Presbyterian Blue Hose.[4] Bethel decided to attend Presbyterian, and majored in Business Administration.

Bethel played in 12 games during his freshman season in 2008, amassing 54 tackles and 37 solo tackles. He had two interceptions and two blocked kicks. 2009 was a breakout season for Bethel. He had a team-best 79 tackles during 11 games, 55 of which were solo. He blocked 3 kicks, two in a game against the Gardner–Webb Runnin' Bulldogs. He also forced one fumble and had 4.5 tackles for a loss. For his efforts, he was named to the Big South Conference all-conference second-team defensive squad.[5]

Professional career

[edit]

Pre-draft

[edit]

Bethel caught the attention of pro scouts with a strong performance in the East-West Shrine Game.[4] He had a YouTube video showing him making a vertical leap onto boxes five feet high. Coming out of Presbyterian, he was projected to be a fifth or sixth round pick. He received an invitation to the NFL Combine and completed all of the required combine drills. His vertical leap of 39+1⁄2 in (1,000 mm) was the highest of any defensive player who attended the combine.[6] On March 9, 2012, Bethel participated at Presbyterian's pro day and opted to run the 40, 20, and 10-yard dash while also performing positional drills. He was ranked as the seventh best free safety prospect in the draft by NFLDraftScout.com.

Pre-draft measurables
Height Weight Arm length Hand span 40-yard dash 10-yard split 20-yard split 20-yard shuttle Three-cone drill Vertical jump Broad jump Bench press
5 ft 11+5⁄8 in
(1.82 m) 		200 lb
(91 kg) 		32+3⁄8 in
(0.82 m) 		9+3⁄4 in
(0.25 m)		 4.58 s 1.60 s 2.68 s 4.30 s 6.79 s 39+1⁄2 in
(1.00 m)		 10 ft 11 in
(3.33 m)		 19 reps
All values from NFL Combine[7]

Arizona Cardinals

[edit]

2012

[edit]
Bethel in 2013

The Arizona Cardinals selected Bethel in the sixth round (177th overall) of the 2012 NFL draft.[8] He was the first Presbyterian player selected in the NFL Draft since 1969.[9] On May 15, 2012, the Arizona Cardinals signed Bethel to a four-year rookie contract.[10]

Bethel entered his first training camp with the Cardinals as a free safety, but was moved to cornerback by defensive coordinator Ray Horton a few weeks into camp. He competed with Greg Toler, Michael Adams, Crezdon Butler, A. J. Jefferson, and Jamell Fleming for a backup cornerback position. Head coach Ken Whisenhunt named him the sixth cornerback on the Arizona Cardinals' depth chart to begin his rookie season, behind Patrick Peterson, William Gay, Greg Toler, Jamell Fleming, and Michael Adams.[11]

Bethel made his professional regular season debut in the Cardinals' season-opening 20–16 win over the Seattle Seahawks. On December 23, 2012, Bethel recovered Olindo Mare's blocked field goal and returned it 82-yards for a touchdown in a 28–13 loss to the Chicago Bears.[12] The Cardinals finished with a 5–11 record and did not qualify for the playoffs.[13] He finished his rookie season with 13 total tackles.[14]

2013

[edit]

Bethel entered Arizona Cardinals' training camp in 2013 competing with Antoine Cason, Jerraud Powers, Jamell Fleming, Javier Arenas, and Bryan McCann for the vacant starting cornerback position left by the departure of William Gay. New Cardinals' head coach Bruce Arians named him the sixth cornerback on the depth chart to begin the season, behind Patrick Peterson, Jerraud Powers, Antoine Cason, Javier Arenas, and Jamell Fleming.[15]

On September 15, 2013, Bethel blocked a field goal for the first time in his career against the Detroit Lions.[16] On November 10, he blocked another field goal, this time against the Houston Texans.[17] Bethel was selected to be in the 2014 Pro Bowl as a special teams player, joining teammates Patrick Peterson, Antonio Cromartie, and Calais Campbell. He became the first player from Presbyterian to become a Pro bowler.[18] The Cardinals finished with a 10–6 record and did not qualify for the playoffs.[19] He finished his second season with 21 tackles and two field goal blocks.[20]

2014

[edit]

Bethel gave up his number #31 to Antonio Cromartie and switched to #28, which belonged to Rashard Mendenhall the season prior before he retired.[21] He competed for the starting cornerback job in training camp, going up against Antonio Cromartie, Jerraud Powers, and Brandon Sermons. Head coach Bruce Arians named Bethel the fourth cornerback on the depth chart to begin 2014, behind Patrick Peterson, Antonio Cromartie, and Jerraud Powers.[22]

On November 2, 2014, Bethel recorded his third career blocked field goal against the Dallas Cowboys.[23] He was named the NFC Special Teams Player of the Week three days later.[24] On December 7, Bethel grabbed a game-saving fumble recovery in the fourth quarter against the Kansas City Chiefs, his first recovery of his career on defense.[25] He was also named NFC special teams Player of the Month for December. The last time a Cardinal won this award was Patrick Peterson in November 2011.[26] He finished his third season with 25 total tackles.[27]

Bethel was voted to the 2015 Pro Bowl as a special teams player, becoming the second player in franchise history to make the Pro Bowl multiple times as a special teamer (with Ron Wolfley).[28] The Cardinals finished second in the NFC West with an 11–5 record and received a playoff berth.[29] On January 3, 2015, Bethel appeared in his first career postseason game and tackled Carolina Panthers' punter Brad Nortman in the end zone for a safety during the fourth quarter of a 16–27 loss to the Carolina Panthers in the NFC Wild Card Round.[30]

2015

[edit]

Bethel entered training camp competing with Jerraud Powers for the vacant starting cornerback job left by the departure of Antonio Cromartie.[31] He started the regular season as the backup to Patrick Peterson and Jerraud Powers.[32]

On September 27, 2015, Bethel recorded his first-career interception and returned it for a 21-yard touchdown during a 47–7 victory over the San Francisco 49ers.[33] He also knocked the ball from DeAndrew White, but it was recovered by a 49er. On October 26, he ripped the ball from Jeremy Ross and recovered the fumble in a 26–18 win over the Baltimore Ravens, his second forced fumble of the season, and third of his career.[34] On November 1, he earned his first career start and recorded four solo tackles and two pass deflections in a 34–20 victory against the Cleveland Browns.[35] On December 5, the Arizona Cardinals signed Bethel to a three-year, $15 million contract extension with $9 million guaranteed and a $3 million signing bonus.[36] He became the starting nickelback for the remainder of the season in Week 16 after safety Tyrann Mathieu tore his ACL and was placed on injured reserve.[37][38] On December 27, Bethel recorded a career-high eight combined tackles and intercepted a pass attempt by Aaron Rodgers in a 38–8 win over the Green Bay Packers.[39] He finished the regular season with career highs in tackles (46), passes defended (9), and interceptions (2), as well as two forced fumbles and a touchdown.[40]

Bethel at the 2016 Pro Bowl

He received his third consecutive invitation to the 2016 Pro Bowl as a special teams player.[41] The Arizona Cardinals finished the 2015 season as NFC West champs after finishing 13–3.[42] On January 16, 2016, Bethel started in his first career postseason game and collected six solo tackles and defended a pass as the Cardinals defeated the Green Bay Packers 26–20 in overtime, winning the NFC Divisional Round.[43] On January 24, he started the NFC Championship against the Panthers and made four combined tackles and a pass deflection during a 15–49 loss.[44]

In 2015, his high school alma mater, Blythewood High School, retired his jersey number 31.[45]

2016

[edit]

On April 20, 2016, it was reported that Bethel had undergone surgery earlier in the week to repair slight fracture in his ankle that he had suffered on November 23, 2015, against the Cincinnati Bengals. He missed organized team activities and the first three weeks of training camp.[46] Bethel was expected to be the Arizona Cardinal's starting cornerback alongside Patrick Peterson after Jerraud Powers had departed through free agency.[47] Upon his arrival at training camp, he competed with Mike Jenkins, Asa Jackson, Tharold Simon, and Brandon Williams. He began the 2016 season as the backup to Patrick Peterson and Brandon Williams.[48]

On November 13, he earned his first start of the season and recorded four solo tackles and deflected a pass during a 23–20 victory over the San Francisco 49ers On November 20, Bethel blocked a Kai Forbath extra point in the second quarter against the Minnesota Vikings, marking his fourth career blocked kick.[49] On January 1, 2017, Bethel returned an interception for a 66-yard touchdown in the fourth quarter of a 44–6 victory over the Los Angeles Rams.[50] The Cardinals finished with a 7–8–1 record and did not qualify for the playoffs.[51] He finished the 2016 season with 39 tackles, six pass deflections, an interception, and a touchdown.[52]

2017

[edit]

Bethel entered training camp in 2017 competing against Brandon Williams, Tramon Williams, and Harlan Miller for the vacant starting cornerback position after Marcus Cooper departed for the Chicago Bears during free agency.[53] Head coach Bruce Arians named Bethel the starting cornerback, along with Patrick Peterson, to begin the regular season.[54] It marked the first time he had been named the starting cornerback to begin the regular season in Bethel's career.

He started in the Cardinals' season opening 35–23 loss to the Lions and returned an interception off Matthew Stafford for an 82-yard touchdown in the first quarter.[55] He lost the starting job and was demoted to the team's No. 3 cornerback in Week 7 due to the emergence of the veteran Tramon Williams.[56] The Cardinals finished with an 8–8 record and did not qualify for the playoffs.[57] He finished the 2017 season with 41 tackles, four pass deflections, an interception, and a touchdown.[58]

Atlanta Falcons

[edit]

On March 24, 2018, Bethel signed with the Atlanta Falcons.[59] He played in 14 games primarily on special teams, recording 14 tackles.[60]

Baltimore Ravens

[edit]

On March 15, 2019, Bethel signed a two-year contract with the Baltimore Ravens.[61] He was released on October 21, 2019.[62]

New England Patriots

[edit]

On October 22, 2019, Bethel signed a two-year contract with the New England Patriots.[63] Bethel made his debut with the Patriots in week 9 against the Baltimore Ravens. In the game, Bethel recovered a muffed punt by return man Cyrus Jones in the 37–20 loss.[64] In week 15 against the Bengals, Bethel recovered a punt muffed by punt returner Alex Erickson during the 34–13 win.[65] In the 2019 season, he appeared in all 16 games, mainly in a special teams role. He had three fumble recoveries on the year.[66]

In the 2020 season, Bethel appeared in all 16 games in mainly a special teams role.[67]

On March 12, 2021, Bethel re-signed with the Patriots on a three-year, $6 million contract.[68] In the 2021 season, he played in all 17 games with a majority of his production coming on special teams.[69]

On August 30, 2022, Bethel was released by the Patriots.[70]

Miami Dolphins

[edit]

On September 1, 2022, Bethel signed with the Miami Dolphins.[71] He appeared in all 17 games with a majority of his production coming on special teams. He had one interception on the season.[72]

Bethel re-signed with the Dolphins on March 24, 2023.[73]

NFL career statistics

[edit]
Legend
Bold Career high

Regular season

[edit]
Year Team Games Tackles Interceptions Fumbles
GP GS Cmb Solo Ast Sck TFL Int Yds TD Lng PD FF FR Yds TD
2012 ARI 16 0 13 12 1 0.0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0
2013 ARI 16 0 21 17 4 0.0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 -3 0
2014 ARI 16 0 25 21 4 0.0 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 1 0 0
2015 ARI 16 5 46 44 2 0.0 0 2 21 1 21 9 2 2 0 0
2016 ARI 16 3 39 37 2 0.0 3 1 66 1 66 6 1 1 0 0
2017 ARI 16 6 41 29 12 0.0 1 1 82 1 82 4 0 0 0 0
2018 ATL 14 0 14 12 2 0.0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0
2019 BAL 7 0 6 4 2 0.0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 0 0
NWE 9 0 6 5 1 0.0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 2 0 0
2020 NWE 16 0 14 13 1 0.0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0
2021 NWE 17 0 12 9 3 0.0 0 0 0 0 0 1 1 0 0 0
2022 MIA 17 0 26 17 9 0.0 0 1 11 0 11 4 0 0 0 0
2023 MIA 17 1 19 15 4 0.5 2 0 0 0 0 1 0 0 0 0
193 15 282 235 47 0.5 6 5 180 3 82 25 5 8 -3 0

Playoffs

[edit]
Year Team Games Tackles Interceptions Fumbles
GP GS Cmb Solo Ast Sck TFL Int Yds TD Lng PD FF FR Yds TD
2014 ARI 1 0 1 1 0 0.0 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 0 0
2015 ARI 2 2 10 10 0 0.0 0 0 0 0 0 2 0 0 0 0
2019 NWE 1 0 0 0 0 0.0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0
2021 NWE 1 0 0 0 0 0.0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0
2022 MIA 1 0 0 0 0 0.0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0
2023 MIA 1 0 0 0 0 0.0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0
7 2 11 11 0 0.0 1 0 0 0 0 2 0 1 0 0

References

[edit]
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  3. ^ Cruse, Josh (September 23, 2016). "Bethel reminisces about Blythewood's 2006 title". Columbia Star. Retrieved October 30, 2023.
  4. ^ a b Kendall, Josh (February 27, 2012). "Bethel ready to cook in new career". TheState.com. Archived from the original on February 5, 2013.
  5. ^ "Justin Bethel – 2011 – Football". Presbyterian College. Retrieved October 30, 2023.
  6. ^ Darren Rovell, "Draft Sleeper Justin Bethel Turns Heads By Jumping Five Feet In The Air, CNBC.com, April 23, 2012.
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[edit]
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