The 2024 NFL Draft will be a great event for teams to start building for their future. Here is the Max Melton 2024 NFL Draft Profile.
Position: Cornerback
School: Rutgers
Size: 5-foot-11, 187 pounds
Class: Senior
2023 stats: 32 total tackles, 4 tackles for loss, 1 sack, 3 interceptions, 6 passes defended, 1 fumble recovery, 1 forced fumble
Melton followed in his older brother Bo’s footsteps in going to Rutgers and having a solid career. Now, he is following his brother to the NFL.
As a three-star recruit in 2020, Melton signed with Rutgers as an in-state prospect. He broke into the starting lineup during his freshman season, finishing with 21 tackles and one pass defended. As a full-time starter in 2021, he had 25 total tackles, three interceptions and five passes defended. His play helped Rutgers win five games. For the 2022 season, Melton tallied 33 total tackles, two interceptions and 10 passes defended. Rutgers won just four games. In 2023, Melton posted 32 total tackles, three interceptions and six passes defended. He led Rutgers to an improved to a seven-win season.
Following the season, Melton declared for the 2024 NFL Draft. He is currently projected to be a day-two pick.
Melton is an athletic corner, who tested well at the NFL Combine. He ran a fast 40-yard dash and that shows up on tape. Melton can run with receivers down the field. He has the ability to change directions well and can accelerate quickly. Athletically, he will be able to match up with a lot of receivers in the NFL.
He was able to show his ability in multiple coverages at Rutgers. Melton can press or play off-man, with the ability to mirror receivers’ routes well. In zone coverage, he has good eye balance and instincts, which allow him to make plays on the ball.
His versatility will be enticing to NFL teams. He succeeded at outside corner in college. If teams are worried about his size, he has a great skill set for playing in the slot. Defensive coordinators will be able to move him around based on matchups and personnel.
Melton isn’t the biggest corner in the draft at 5-foot-11 and 187 pounds. He can continue filling out his frame to improve his play strength. Melton can struggle with bigger receivers at times, but he can play through it at others. He played well against Marvin Harrison Jr., who had a size advantage over him.
While he is willing in run support, Melton can show better pursuit. He doesn’t always dodge traffic or take the best angles to the football. That can result in big plays being given up. If he can work on taking better angles to the football he can be an asset as a run defender.
He usually mirrors well, but can get off-balance at time. This comes as a result of not staying low when he is backpedaling. When he turns his hips, it can take some time for him to recover. Working on his footwork and technique will make him more consistent.
Projected Draft Range: Second Round Pick-Third Round Pick
Draft Grade: Second Round Pick
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