The Arizona Cardinals have made progress in securing their rookie roster by signing seven out of their 12 draft picks to contracts. Among them are second-round cornerback Max Melton and third-round offensive lineman Isaiah Adams, who have both agreed to four-year deals.
The Cardinals have been proactive in securing contracts with several of their draft picks. In addition to Melton and Adams, they have also signed 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.
As for the details of Melton’s contract, they have not been disclosed yet.
Arizona made a strategic move by trading down to select Max Melton out of Rutgers at No. 43 overall. The 5-foot-11 New Jersey native brings a wealth of experience from his four seasons (2020-2023) at his hometown university, where he appeared in 41 games.
During his tenure as a Scarlet Knight, Melton showcased his versatility, compiling 111 tackles, eight interceptions, one sack, and defending 22 passes. In his final college year, he participated in 12 games, contributing 32 tackles, three interceptions, and six pass breakups.
Melton’s impactful performance was instrumental in Rutgers’ victory in the 2023 Pinstripe Bowl, where they triumphed 31-24 over the University of Miami (Florida). At just 22 years old, Melton’s potential and accomplishments highlight his promising future in the NFL.
The Cardinals’ recent signing of Isaiah Adams completes the duo of Fighting Illini teammates officially joining the team, following tight end Tip Reiman, who signed his contract on Friday.
Adams’ journey to the NFL has taken him across North America. Born in Canada, he spent two years at a Canadian university before transferring to a junior college in Kansas for two years. He then concluded his collegiate career at Illinois in Champaign.
Despite dealing with injuries, Adams showcased his versatility by playing multiple positions. In 2022, he made a significant impact at left guard after transitioning from right tackle. His versatility at the guard position addresses a need for the Cardinals, who have sought to strengthen this area through both free agency and the draft.
Adams will face competition from players such as Elijah Wilkinson, Trystan Colon, Jon Gaines II, and offseason addition Evan Brown as he vies for a spot on the Cardinals’ roster.
Among the Cardinals rookies, Marvin Harrison Jr., Darius Robinson, Trey Benson, Elijah Jones, and Dadrion Taylor-Demerson are the only ones yet to finalize their contracts.