Bo Melton joined the Green Bay Packers’ active roster on December 27, 2022, after they picked him up off of the Seattle Seahawks’ practice squad. Green Bay released him on August 29, 2023 but signed him to their practice squad the next day.
Melton has defied the usual practice squad limits, earning promotion to the active gameday roster three times in 2023. He saw his first NFL action against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, but his standout performance on New Year’s Eve against the Minnesota Vikings caught the attention of teammates, coaching staff, media, and fans alike.
Filling in for an injury-plagued receiving corps, Melton stepped up when the Packers needed him. Melton became the go-to guy with Christian Watson sidelined due to a hamstring injury, Dontayvion Wicks inactive, and Jayden Reed exiting the game at halftime with a chest injury. He finished Sunday Night Football with six receptions, 105 yards, and a touchdown. Just like everyone expected, he was Green Bay’s first receiver to reach 100 yards in a game this year.
Melton did a great job in exploiting spaces within the secondary. Jordan Love found success connecting with him on a second-and-long in the first quarter. Deftly causing Akayleb Evans to hesitate in coverage, the play unfolded with Melton’s well-executed inside post route to the right, resulting in a big play.
Melton secured his first NFL touchdown late in the third quarter. Facing third-and-short, the Packers opted to take a shot at the end zone. Melton found an opening in a typically congested part of the field.
He also has good concentration skills. No matter how close the defenders get, Melton still finds a way to snag the football. And let’s not forget, Love’s ball placement makes it easier for him, too!
Love unleashed a dart with a beautiful arm angle against the Carolina Panthers. Melton snagged it while on the run despite having a defender on his tail.
In garbage time, Melton reeled in a ball from Sean Clifford with a touch of 2020 vibes. It was like he was in his own zone, socially distancing from defenders and everyone else on the field.
The Packers can bank on Melton to step up and take snaps when needed. He was in the game for 66% of the offensive snaps against the Vikings, third-highest among skill-position players.
Matt LaFleur has highlighted Melton’s exceptional work ethic and commitment to continuous improvement. Melton consistently endeavors to learn and perfect every detail. That speaks volumes about who he is and reflects the kind of character the Packers seek to bring into their locker room. The emphasis on hard work, a thirst for knowledge, and attention to every aligns with Green Bay’s vision for fostering a positive, hardworking, and winning culture. Melton’s dedication to personal growth is pivotal in shaping the team’s ethos.
Melton should see increased action against the Chicago Bears this week with Watson, Wicks, and Reed questionable. The showdown in Chicago essentially serves as a playoff game for Green Bay. Melton’s potential increased involvement adds an intriguing element to the equation, providing an opportunity to witness how he handles the heightened pressure and critical moments.
Like the rest of the receiver room, Melton is young, and it’s important not to set unrealistic expectations at this stage of his career. However, he has consistently demonstrated his reliability. While we may not see fireworks every time he takes the field, Melton has proven to be a dependable contributor when the Packers have needed him to be one. He might not always deliver something spectacular, he possesses the tools and skills to get the job done.
