Justin Bethel

Bethel's offseason was spent in rehabilitation from foot surgery, and in an effort to ramp up his activity level in advance of training, he suffered a setback that delayed his first practice this term to Aug. 21. In the meantime, 2016 third-round pick Brandon Williams has stepped into the open cornerback spot opposite Patrick Peterson and fared well. With experience in the Cardinals' system, Bethel still has time to capture the role, but his performance in the dress rehearsal that is the third preseason game may seal his Week 1 fate.

Since his selection in the sixth round of the 2012 NFL Draft, Bethel has developed into a stalwart member of the Cardinals' special teams unit. While performing much of the dirty work from game to game, he's also moonlighted as a corner, but only a standout camp and preseason would push him past Jerraud Powers for the starting job opposite Patrick Peterson. Nevertheless, Bethel has a great chance to build upon his combined 46 tackles (38 solo), two fumble recoveries, and one forced fumble from the last two seasons.

Is currently listed as the team's third strong safety, but he played corner in college. With such a crowded defensive backfield Bethel may find himself on the practice squad to begin his rookie year.