Packers Experiment with WR Bo Melton at Cornerback During Minicamp

Green Bay, Wisconsin – The Green Bay Packers are experimenting with wide receiver Bo Melton playing cornerback during their mandatory minicamp that began on Tuesday. General Manager Brian Gutekunst announced that the team is exploring a position change for Melton, who has only played wide receiver in his collegiate and professional career.

“We’ve talked about this for a couple of years, just his skill set and how versatile he is,” Gutekunst said. “You watch him on teams and you’re like, wow, he can probably do some of that.” The Packers believe that Melton’s athleticism could add significant value to their defense.

Melton, who is 5-11 and weighs 189 pounds, has a remarkable 4.34-second 40-yard dash time and a 38-inch vertical leap. His size and speed could make him a suitable candidate for cornerback, especially after the release of former cornerback Jaire Alexander. The Packers are looking for more depth at the position heading into training camp.

During minicamp practice, Melton participated in individual drills with the cornerbacks and played both positions during live drills. Gutekunst noted that Melton’s strong special teams performance, including roles as a gunner and blocker, could provide a seamless transition to cornerback.

Despite his potential, Melton faces a tough challenge in making the 53-man roster for the upcoming season, especially with rookie wide receivers Matthew Golden and Savion Williams joining the team. In 2023, Melton had 16 receptions for 218 yards and one touchdown but saw a drop in production in 2024 with only eight catches for 91 yards.

Meanwhile, Gutekunst expressed confidence in the Packers’ current cornerback lineup of Keisean Nixon, Carrington Valentine, and Nate Hobbs. With a combined 95 starts among them, Gutekunst believes this trio can perform well as the season approaches. Nixon has been pivotal in adapting to various roles, including playing both in the slot and outside.

“I feel really good about that group,” Gutekunst said. “They’ve proven their ability in this league.” The experience of Nixon, Valentine, and Hobbs will be crucial as the Packers look to solidify their cornerback depth chart.

Younger players like Kalen King and Kamal Hadden, who spent last season on the practice squad, will vie for positions along with new draftees. If injuries or other setbacks arise, the team may seek additional veteran help to ensure a strong cornerback lineup for the upcoming season.