Max Melton

Max Melton, a promising cornerback for the Arizona Cardinals, has quickly made a name for himself in the NFL after being selected in the second round of the 2024 NFL Draft. Born on April 15, 2002, in Mays Landing, New Jersey, Melton's early life was marked by his achievements at Cedar Creek High School, which paved the way for his collegiate career at Rutgers. Here, he honed his skills and showcased his defensive prowess, playing in the competitive landscape of the Big Ten Conference. Standing at 5 feet 11 inches and weighing 193 pounds, Melton's physical attributes, combined with his agility and defensive insight, made him an attractive prospect for the Cardinals, who drafted him with the 43rd overall pick. His rookie season in 2024 saw him participating in both preseason and regular games, showcasing his ability to adapt to the professional level quickly. In the preseason, Melton was active in two games, starting both, where he contributed with four combined tackles and one penalty for five yards, demonstrating his readiness to contribute to the team's efforts. Transitioning to the regular season, Melton's role expanded, as evidenced by his participation in 17 games, starting three of them. He racked up an impressive 45 combined tackles, including 31 solo tackles and 14 assists, asserting his presence on the field. Moreover, his defensive skills led to two tackles for loss, one forced fumble, and five passes defended, highlighting his ability to disrupt the opposition's offensive schemes. Melton's performance as a cornerback in his debut season reflects his potential for growth and his capability to become a key player in the Cardinals' defensive lineup. His early career milestones, including his draft selection and contributions in his rookie year, indicate a promising future in the NFL.