The Green Bay Packers are preparing to cut wide receiver Bo Melton after his performance during training camp failed to convince quarterback Jordan Love and head coach Matt LaFleur of his value at the position. In a surprising development during the 2025 preseason, Melton, once a promising seventh-round pick, has been switched from wide receiver to cornerback in a last-ditch effort to secure a roster spot.

Once recognized for his breakout 105-yard game against the Minnesota Vikings in Week 17 of last season, Melton appeared set to become a key part of the Packers’ receiving corps. However, his role has dramatically shifted as the team tries to find any avenue for him to contribute. At 26 years old, Melton is now taking snaps at cornerback, despite not having played the position since high school and only briefly experiencing it in college back in 2018.

The Background and Context of Melton’s Position Switch

This move is less about experimentation and more about survival for Melton. Head coach Matt LaFleur acknowledged the challenge, describing it as “an opportunity,” but it is a rare course that often hints at a player’s precarious standing. The Packers previously tried transitioning Rico Gafford from wide receiver to cornerback; he lasted less than a year before being released. Across the NFL, similar conversions, like that of former Chicago Bear Devin Smith, have infrequently resulted in sustained success.

Mitch Widmeier of Zone Coverage bluntly summarized the situation:

Switching Bo Melton to corner is an indication that he probably won’t make the roster.

This perspective mirrors the sentiments expressed internally within the Packers’ facility, where Melton’s shift signals a battle for his football career rather than a straightforward position change.

LaFleur addressed Melton’s progress at camp candidly, stating,

We’re asking a lot of him right now. We’re trying to figure out the best spot for him,

according to the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel. This admission indicates Melton has struggled to meet expectations as a wide receiver amidst stiff competition.

Wide Receiver Competition and Challenges for Melton

The Packers’ wide receiver room this year is notably deep, making Melton’s path to playing time even harder. ESPN’s Packers Camp Preview highlighted Jayden Reed and Christian Watson as expected offensive leaders. Alongside them, emerging talents such as Dontayvion Wicks and Matthew Golden provide significant depth. This strong group limits Melton’s chances to secure a meaningful role on offense.

From a statistical standpoint, Melton’s professional contributions have been limited. Pro Football Reference records just 16 receptions for 218 yards in his NFL career so far. While Melton accepted the cornerback transition without hesitation, saying,

Anything that helps the team, I’ll do it,

through the Journal Sentinel, willingness alone may not secure his place on the roster.

Examining the Possible Paths for Melton to Stay with the Packers

Though Melton’s odds appear slim, there remains a potential lifeline through special teams. Coaches have noted his quick feet and football IQ, suggesting he

“might surprise if given the right lane to succeed,”

as Heavy.com reported. Still, Melton will need to quickly produce tangible impact to survive roster cuts, with special teams performance likely being his best chance to contribute.

The Packers’ defensive backfield already includes established players like Keisean Nixon, Carrington Valentine, and Nate Hobbs, further reducing opportunities for Melton to find a defensive role. General Manager Brian Gutekunst did not shy away from the gravity of the situation, commenting,

We’re excited to see what he might be able to do at corner on defense.

Gutenkust reinforced the message when Melton changed his jersey number from 80 to 16, stating,

That looks a little bit better than the 80 he was running out there at camp,

implying that Melton’s roster hopes depend primarily on his ability to perform well on defense.

Past Examples of Position Changes Within the Packers Organization

This strategy is not unfamiliar in Green Bay. The Packers have a history of experimenting with players switching positions to maximize their potential or extend their careers. Jonathan Garvin’s 2023 shift from linebacker to defensive tackle ended abruptly with his release. Similarly, Alex McGough’s attempt to move from quarterback to wide receiver failed to stick. In 2020, James Looney transitioned from defensive line to tight end before being cut, exemplifying the risks and rarity of successful conversions.

Melton’s attempt reflects a familiar pattern of versatile athletes aiming to prove their adaptability before final cuts. However, the Packers organization remains cautious, knowing that most such moves do not yield lasting results.

Special Teams as Melton’s Best Chance to Secure a Roster Spot

Special teams may provide the most realistic opportunity for Melton to demonstrate his value. As Rich Bisaccia, a respected special teams coach, said,

We’re looking for guys who love to run and hit — not just catch and juke,

highlighting the type of energy and physicality the Packers expect from players stepping into special teams roles.

Gutenkust reinforced this approach, noting,

He’ll spend most of his time, especially these first three or four weeks, at corner.

Success on special teams—through impactful tackles, blocked returns, or aggressive energy—could be the difference that helps Melton outlast initial cuts.

Nonetheless, the window to earn this opportunity is narrow, and Melton’s margin for error is slim. His previous seasons have not yet produced a compelling case to guarantee the Packers’ confidence, making these weeks vital for his professional future.