The Arizona Cardinals made a savvy move in the 2024 NFL draft, snagging cornerback Max Melton out of Rutgers with their second-round pick. They didn't stick to the script, trading back from the 35th overall pick to No. 43 overall, but it paid off big time to land him.
Melton brings a lot to the table. He's got the size, the athleticism, and some really impressive tape to back it all up.
Now, what's his role going to be? Well, the Cardinals already have a couple of mainstays at cornerback. There's Garrett Williams, drafted last year and quickly making waves in the nickel role after coming back from his ACL tear. Then there's veteran Sean Murphy-Bunting, who they snagged on a three-year deal in the offseason.
But there's still a spot up for grabs, and Melton's looking to fill it. Whether it's as the CB2 or CB3, it's all up in the air.
It'll depend on how they plan to use Williams. If they keep him in the nickel/slot role, then Melton could slide into that starting spot opposite Murphy-Bunting. Or they might switch things up, using Williams in a more flexible inside-outside role, leaving Melton to shine on the outside.
There's competition, though. Third-round pick Elijah Jones is in the mix too. But Melton's got the pedigree, being a second-round pick and all. He's primed to either start or be a key part of the cornerback rotation.
And if he doesn't quite crack the defensive lineup right away? No worries. Melton's got a knack for special teams. He blocked four punts in college and was a standout gunner. Just look at Budda Baker, another second-round pick who made his mark on special teams before becoming a Pro Bowl player.
So whether it's locking down receivers or making plays on special teams, Melton's ready to make an impact for the Cardinals.
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