Justin Bethel

Cardinals ink special teams star Justin Bethel to $15 million extension

The Arizona Cardinals signed cornerback and special teams standout Justin Bethel to a three-year, $15 million extension through 2018.

What It Means:

NFL Network's Rand Getlin reports the deal includes $9 million in guarantees and $1.8 million in incentives. NFL Network's Ian Rapoport reported Saturday morning Bethel would get a "massive" extension. $15 million over three years does not seem massive on its face, but it is a good chunk of change for a special team and sub-package player, even though Bethel has been exceptional in both roles. Bethel has made back-to-back Pro Bowls as a special teamer, and he has an interception and two fumble recoveries in just 210 defensive snaps this season. With fellow cornerback Jerraud Powers set to hit free agency, Bethel could have a bigger defensive role next season.

In Adjusted Defensive Passing Net Expected Points (NEP) per play, the Cardinals defense ranks ninth this year.