Raiders Draft Prospect: CB Max Melton, Rutgers

The Las Vegas Raiders could be interested in Rutgers cornerback Max Melton in the 2024 NFL Draft.

The Las Vegas Raiders are seeking young talent in the 2024 NFL Draft.

The Raiders are on the verge of becoming a playoff team and were just outside the picture last season. The Raiders might feel like they are just a few pieces away from breaking through to the postseason.

Under Coach Antonio Pierce, the Raiders have built a culture of relentless defense and competitiveness. He and new General Manager Tom Telesco are looking for players who fit that culture.

One of those players could be Rutgers cornerback Max Melton, whose older brother, Bo, also played at Rutgers and now is a wide receiver for the Green Bay Packers.

Melton finished his Scarlet Knights career with 111 total tackles, eight and a half tackles for losses, a forced fumble, 22 passes defended and eight interceptions. 

Rutgers players often come out of college with high IQs and tenacious motors, and those traits certainly apply to Melton.

Melton has been a standout at Senior Bowl practices this week, facing some of the best receivers in the draft class and winning his match-ups. Melton’s stock could rise because of his performance this week.

Melton stands at 6 feet tall and weighs 193 pounds. He is the type of player who is not afraid to get physical at the line of scrimmage and also be aggressive in the running game.

Rutgers cornerback Max Melton could be a fit for the Las Vegas Raiders' culture out of the 2024 NFL Draft / Jeffrey Becker-USA TODAY Sports

Not only is Melton physically imposing, but he is technically refined and has a high football IQ. He moves effortlessly in the open field and is able to mirror wide receivers effortlessly. His eight interceptions reflect his impressive ball skills as well.

Melton’s coverage skills are impressive as well. According to Pro Football Focus, he was targeted 44 times and allowed only 24 receptions for 252 yards and three touchdowns. He can play in either man or zone coverage because of his versatile skill set.

However, Melton is not an exceptional athlete and could get beat by athletic receivers at the next level. Melton will hope his high IQ can make up for some of his physical limitations.

Melton is projected to be a day three selection in the NFL Draft, but could see his stock increase with his performance at the Senior Bowl this week. 

The Raiders could be enticed by his lineage and work ethic, and could add him to their already talented secondary.

From February 27 to March 4, 2024, the NFL Scouting Combine will be held at Lucas Oil Stadium in Indianapolis, Ind.

The NFL Draft will be held in Detroit, Mich., on April 25-27, 2024. The Las Vegas Raiders currently hold the No. 13 overall pick.

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