Cardinals' Justin Bethel: Misses entire offseason program

Bethel (foot) missed the entire offseason program, the Cardinals' official site reports.

Analysis:

After inking a three-year extension in early December, Bethel was pressed into starting duty within weeks due to Tyrann Mathieu's torn ACL in Week 15. Bethel subsequently tallied 25 tackles, four passes defended, and one interception in four games, including two postseason tilts. As the offseason proceeded, the team allowed veteran cornerback Jerraud Powers to leave via free agency, which placed Bethel at the top of the depth chart at cornerback opposite Patrick Peterson. However, Bethel's offseason has so far centered about rehab from surgery to repair a "slight" fracture in his foot. With no activity in the offseason program, he may have hindered his chances in pursuit of the gig, but the prudent approach is expected to ensure that he's 100 percent once training camp begins in late July.