Former James Madison University cornerback Elijah Culp has signed a contract with the Arizona Cardinals of the National Football League, according to an April 25 announcement from the university.
Culp’s move to the professional league follows his recent collegiate career, where he played a key role for James Madison in reaching the College Football Playoff. His signing comes after the conclusion of this year’s NFL Draft.
Culp, who is from Charlotte, North Carolina, completed his final season at James Madison in 2025. During that season, he started all 13 games at cornerback and was named Third Team All-Sun Belt defensive back. He recorded 46 tackles, including 2.5 tackles for loss, one interception—which occurred during the College Football Playoff First Round against Oregon—and eight pass breakups.
Before joining James Madison University, Culp played for several other programs: Charlotte in 2023-24, Troy in 2021-22, and Austin Peay in 2020. Over his college career spanning four schools and five seasons, he appeared in a total of 53 games with 35 starts as a defensive back. His cumulative statistics include 128 tackles (6.5 for loss), five interceptions and sixteen pass breakups.
Culp confirmed his agreement with the Cardinals following this year’s draft process.
