Cardinals select CB Max Melton at No. 43

The Arizona Cardinals selected Rutgers cornerback Max Melton in the second round of the 2024 NFL Draft, No. 43 overall.

The Cardinals acquired the No. 43 selection in a trade down from No. 35 with the Atlanta Falcons.

Melton was a three-year starter for Rutgers, racking up 30 passes defended and eight interceptions. The 22-year-old is a physical, athletic cornerback who has a chance to start Week 1.

Pre-draft profile

Highlighted by a 40.5-inch vertical and an 11-foot-4 broad jump at the combine, Melton is a great athlete with excellent speed and explosiveness. The former Scarlet Knight could earn snaps in the slot or on the outside, and he plays reasonably well in man and zone. However, he doesn't excel anywhere. Melton's upright play style also costs him efficiency and can lead to slower drives on the ball and hip flips, but coaching should help that. While Melton is willing to help in run support, he could improve his angles of attack. Melton could develop into a starter thanks to his traits and impressive ball production, as evidenced by his eight interceptions over the last three seasons.