Justin Bethel

Justin Bethel's Biography

Justin Andrew Bethel, an accomplished American professional footballer born on June 17, 1990, is a star player known for his skills as a cornerback and special teamer. Currently listed as a free agent, his football journey took a significant leap when he was selected by the Arizona Cardinals in the 2012 NFL draft’s sixth round. The origins of his football career trace back to his childhood in Sumter, South Carolina, where he first picked up the game at the age of 11.

Bethel’s family relocated to Columbia, South Carolina when he was six. Throughout his years as a student, he excelled academically and athletically. He attended Blythewood High School, where he was named the school’s Defensive Player of the Year in 2007 and contributed significantly to the school’s victory in the 2006 State Championship. Despite these accomplishments, he did not garner much attention from college recruiters.

However, the course of his career was altered dramatically when his high school coach, Jeff Scott, a former co-offensive coordinator at Clemson, and USF head coach, was appointed at Presbyterian Blue Hose. Consequently, Bethel decided to join the Presbyterian Blue Hose, where he majored in Business Administration. However, he initially intended to study culinary arts at Johnson & Wales University.

Bethel showed his mettle in football during his time at Presbyterian. He played a critical role, particularly during the 2009 season, where he recorded massive statistics, including a team-leading 79 tackles. Moreover, he also blocked three kicks in a game against the Gardner–Webb Runnin’ Bulldogs.

Bethel’s prowess on the field caught the attention of NFL scouts, particularly during the East-West Shrine Game. He amassed a collection of spectacular feats, from recording the highest vertical leap of any defensive player at the NFL Combine to making a name for himself as the seventh-best free safety prospect in the draft.

The Arizona Cardinals selected Bethel in the 2012 NFL draft. Being the first player chosen in the NFL Draft from Presbyterian since 1969, Bethel etched his name in the history of the institution. However, he did not rest on his laurels – his debut season saw him moved from free safety to cornerback and his career progressed steadily from thereon.

Throughout his professional career, Bethel compiled numerous accolades, both personal and team-based. These include developing a reputation as a formidable blocker, earning selections to the 2014 and 2015 Pro Bowl as a special teams player, and the NFC Special Teams Player of the Month in December 2014.

In the 2015 season, Bethel was instrumental in enabling the Cardinals to clinch a playoff berth, finishing the season as champs of the NFC West. Yet, Bethel’s contributions were not confined to the Cardinals. He later signed with several other teams, including the Atlanta Falcons, Baltimore Ravens, New England Patriots, and Miami Dolphins, mainly excelling in special teams.

Throughout his career, Bethel consistently showcased his football prowess, even as he switched teams several times. His impressive statistics, which include block kicks, interceptions, tackles, pass deflections, and forced fumbles, attest to his versatility and commitment to improving with each season. This journey, which began on a football field in Columbia, South Carolina, led Bethel to some of the biggest stages in football, resulting in a prestigious and storied career.