Max Melton is an NFL cornerback for the Arizona Cardinals, drafted 43rd in 2024. He hails from a football-oriented family, attended Cedar Creek High School, and excelled in college at Rutgers University. In his rookie season, Melton played all 17 games, starting three, and recorded 51 tackles. His performance, including a career-high nine tackles against the Chargers, highlights his potential. To investigate more about Melton’s path and accomplishments, further insights await.
Early Life
Max Melton grew up alongside his brothers Bo and Gary Jr., where they developed a passion for football in their backyard, often pretending to be NFL stars like Odell Beckham and Calvin Johnson.
Their parents, Gary Sr. and Vicky Melton, both athletic, supported their ambitions while emphasizing the importance of family over competition.
Max attended Cedar Creek High School, where he made a notable impact as both a wide receiver and cornerback, contributing to the team’s impressive 10-3 record and a regional championship appearance.
Following high school, he pursued his college football career at Rutgers, where he and his brother Bo nurtured a competitive yet supportive environment, continuing their shared love for the sport.
Family Life
Max Melton grew up in a supportive family that prioritized athletics and togetherness. His parents, Gary Sr. and Vicky Melton, encouraged him and his brother Bo to pursue their dreams of playing football, nurturing an environment that emphasized family bonds over competition.
The Melton brothers often trained together, inspired by NFL stars and dreaming of professional careers. In honoring their family’s athletic legacy, both Max and Bo attended Rutgers University, where they continued the tradition of sports excellence established by their parents, who also played at Rutgers.
The family values education and athletics, with all brothers, including Gary Jr., pursuing degrees in criminal justice while excelling in football.
Career
Max Melton was selected 43rd in total by the Arizona Cardinals in the 2024 NFL Draft, marking the highest draft pick from Rutgers since 2010.
In his rookie season, he displayed his skills by playing all 17 games and starting three, recording 51 tackles and one forced fumble. A standout performance came against the Chargers, where he achieved a career-high nine tackles.
Melton also made notable contributions on special teams, registering seven tackles and earning recognition for his efforts as a gunner. His versatility and consistency were clear as he finished third among Cardinals cornerbacks in combined tackles during his inaugural year in the NFL.
Net Worth
As of October 2023, Max Melton’s net worth is not publicly disclosed, and detailed financial information about rookie NFL players is often limited.
Melton signed a four-year rookie contract with the Arizona Cardinals, likely earning around $1 million annually.
Specific endorsement deals enhancing Melton’s earnings have not been reported. His financial prospects may grow with experience and performance in the NFL.