PISCATAWAY, NEW JERSEY - SEPTEMBER 3: Defensive back Max Melton #16 of the Rutgers Scarlet Knights celebrates his interception against the Northwestern Wildcats during the second quarter of a college football game at SHI Stadium on September 3, 2023 in Piscataway, New Jersey. (Photo by Rich Schultz/Getty Images)
The Arizona Cardinals have finalized contracts with seven out of their 12 draft picks, securing deals for four years with second-round cornerback Max Melton and third-round offensive lineman Isaiah Adams.
Mad Max is a done deal 😤
— Arizona Cardinals (@AZCardinals) May 14, 2024
Let’s work, Isaiah 💪
— Arizona Cardinals (@AZCardinals) May 14, 2024
The Cardinals have already inked deals with third-round tight end Tip Reiman, fifth-round linebacker Xavier Thomas, fifth-round offensive tackle Christian Jones, sixth-round wide receiver Tejhaun Palmer, and seventh-round cornerback Jaden Davis.
These were the full details of Melton’s deal:
#Cardinals signed second-round pick Max Melton to four-year, $8.888 million deal that includes $3.284 million signing bonus, fully guaranteed 2024-2026, $50,000 skill-injury, cap guaranteed in 2027 @KPRC2
— Aaron Wilson (@AaronWilson_NFL) May 14, 2024
Arizona opted for a trade down to secure Max Melton from Rutgers at the 43rd overall pick. Hailing from New Jersey and standing at 5-foot-11, Melton showcased his skills in 41 games across four seasons (2020-2023) at his hometown university. During his tenure as a Scarlet Knight, Melton tallied 111 tackles, eight interceptions, one sack, and defended 22 passes.
In his final collegiate season, Melton participated in 12 games, recording 32 tackles, three interceptions, and six pass breakups. The 22-year-old played a pivotal role in Rutgers’ victory in the 2023 Pinstripe Bowl, where they defeated the University of Miami (Florida) 31-24.
