Titans NFL Draft Daily (Feb. 8): 'Fearless' Rutgers CB Max Melton Is a Solid Middle-Round Option
Max Melton is hardly a name buzzing around NFL camps right now, but if he's available in the middle rounds of the draft, the Tennessee Titans might want to take a serious look at the former Rutgers star. He brings a lot to the table.
Melton was one of several talented stars participating in the Reese's Senior Bowl this year. The former Scarlet Knights defensive back showed off his versatility during the week in Mobile, Ala.
What stood out most about Melton's efforts at the Senior Bowl? His fearlessness and willingness to deliver big hits. It's something he did his entire career while in Piscataway.
Given the opportunity to showcase that ability in front of pro scouts, Melton took advantage.
"There's no fear in us. I think it all starts from the top down," Melton told TennesseeTitans.com of the Rutgers mentality.
"Coach (Greg) Schiano, he ain't goin' for none of that soft stuff. It trickles down. ... We call ourselves the dark side. If you wanna be part of the dark side, you gotta be able to hit."
It's not just Melton's talent that stood out during the Senior Bowl. He possesses the type of confidence necessary to be successful in the NFL. The cornerback is also willing to contribute in a number of ways, especially on special teams.
"They wanna know if I can guard anybody, and I can. I'm not afraid to hit, I'm very versatile. I can play outside, I can play inside, and I show up on special teams, for sure," Melton said.
"I have four blocked punts all together. I'm a four-year starter at gunner. Special teams, I get to play, I don't have to play special teams. I get to."
Tennessee was sorry in pass defense a season ago and needs to add talented defensive backs to the roster. The need grows with Kristian Fulton and Sean Murphy-Bunting likely departing as free agents.
Melton may not be the best cornerback available in this draft class, but he does have strong upside. Plus, his willingness to be on the field in a special teams role is a characteristic every NFL team wants.
Melton's career at Rutgers
Melton was a two-time All-Big Ten honorable mention (2022, 2023). He played in 41 career games at Rutgers, totaling 111 tackles, 22 passes defended, and eight interceptions. He also blocked four kicks.
Melton was incredibly consistent throughout his college career, recording at least 25 tackles and two interceptions in each of his past three seasons.
Per Pro Football Network, Melton is pegged as a third- or fourth-round selection in the 2024 NFL Draft. With the Titans not having a third-round pick, they'd have to hope he's still available on Day 3.
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