Justin Bethel has a total of 282 tackles in his career with 235 of those tackles being solo and 47 of them assisted. He’s grabbed 5 picks and has 5 forced fumbles for his career. He’s accumulated 6 tackles in the backfield and has tallied 1 quarterback sacks. The world of professional football is filled with athletes who possess incredible talent, drive, and determination. Among these elite players stands Justin Bethel, a name that resonates with fans of the NFL and the sport itself. With his impressive skills and dedication, Bethel has carved out a significant place for himself in the league. In this article, we will delve into Justin Bethel’s football career, exploring his journey from college standout to a key defensive player in the NFL.
Early Life and College Career
Justin Bethel was born on June 17, 1990, in Sumter, South Carolina. From a young age, Bethel displayed a passion for football, a sport that would eventually become his career. He attended Blythewood High School, where he honed his skills and gained recognition for his athletic prowess.
Bethel’s talent on the field earned him a scholarship to Presbyterian College, a small liberal arts school in Clinton, South Carolina. During his time at Presbyterian, Bethel’s performance was nothing short of outstanding. As a defensive back and special teams player, he showcased his versatility and athleticism. His ability to block kicks and punts became a hallmark of his college career, setting the stage for his future in the NFL.
College Achievements
Throughout his college career, Bethel’s achievements were numerous. He was a three-time All-Big South Conference selection and earned All-American honors for his exceptional play on special teams. Bethel’s knack for blocking kicks was particularly impressive, as he set a school record with nine blocked kicks in his college career.
His college success put him on the radar of NFL scouts, and it became clear that Bethel had the potential to excel at the professional level.
Entering the NFL
In the 2012 NFL Draft, Justin Bethel was selected by the Arizona Cardinals in the sixth round. For many players, being drafted in the later rounds presents a significant challenge, but Bethel embraced the opportunity with determination and resilience.
Arizona Cardinals Tenure
Bethel quickly made a name for himself with the Cardinals, primarily as a special teams ace. His speed, agility, and ability to read the game allowed him to excel in this role. Over the years, he developed a reputation as one of the league’s premier special teams players, earning multiple Pro Bowl selections in recognition of his outstanding contributions.
During his time with the Cardinals, Bethel also worked diligently to improve his skills as a cornerback. His hard work paid off, and he became a reliable defensive presence on the field. Bethel’s ability to cover receivers and make crucial tackles added depth to the Cardinals’ defense, further enhancing his value to the team.
Career Highlights with the Cardinals
Pro Bowl Selections: Bethel’s exceptional play on special teams earned him three Pro Bowl selections (2013, 2014, 2015), underscoring his impact in this area.
Blocked Kicks: Continuing his college trend, Bethel blocked multiple kicks during his NFL career, showcasing his ability to change the momentum of a game.
Defensive Contributions: As a cornerback, Bethel recorded interceptions, pass deflections, and tackles, proving his versatility on the field.
Continuing the Journey
After six successful seasons with the Arizona Cardinals, Justin Bethel’s journey in the NFL continued with other teams, including the Atlanta Falcons, Baltimore Ravens, and New England Patriots. With each team, Bethel brought his unique skill set and unwavering work ethic, contributing to their special teams and defensive units.
Adapting and Thriving
Bethel’s career is a testament to his ability to adapt and thrive in different environments. Whether playing for the Falcons, Ravens, or Patriots, he consistently demonstrated his commitment to excellence. His experience and leadership qualities made him a valuable asset to any team he joined.
Contributions Beyond the Field
Beyond his on-field achievements, Justin Bethel has also been involved in various charitable activities and community engagement efforts. His dedication to giving back and making a positive impact off the field has earned him respect and admiration from fans and peers alike.
The Legacy of Justin Bethel
As Justin Bethel continues his NFL career, his legacy as a defensive player and special teams standout is firmly established. His journey from a small college program to the professional ranks serves as an inspiration to aspiring football players everywhere. Bethel’s story highlights the importance of perseverance, hard work, and seizing opportunities when they arise.
Looking to the Future
As Bethel continues to make his mark in the NFL, fans eagerly anticipate his future contributions to the game. Whether blocking kicks, making crucial tackles, or mentoring younger players, Justin Bethel remains a force to be reckoned with on the field.
Conclusion
Justin Bethel’s journey in the NFL is a testament to his talent, dedication, and resilience. From his early days in South Carolina to his current status as a respected defensive player, Bethel has consistently proven himself as a valuable asset to every team he has been a part of. His story is a reminder that with hard work and determination, anything is possible in the world of professional football.
Whether you’re a die-hard NFL fan or just beginning to explore the sport, Justin Bethel’s career offers valuable insights into what it takes to succeed at the highest level. As we continue to follow his journey, there’s no doubt that Bethel will leave an indelible mark on the NFL and inspire future generations of athletes.