The Packers have been experimenting with a few new things this preseason — one of the most surprising being a position change for Bo Melton. Originally a wide receiver, Melton was moved to the cornerback room, and many were skeptical about his chances of making the roster. However, so far, everything appears to be going according to plan.
“Again, they screamed receiver, too, but again, right when we brought him in, it was something that we discussed as a personnel group, but then again, he took off as a receiver and certainly we needed him in some of those occasions. But I think, you know, again, it’s very, very early, but after these first five, six days, I think the decision by Matt to kind of keep him at corner and let him grow there and see how that worked was wise because he’s done some really good things for us,” Packers GM Brian Gutekunst said.
With the progress Melton has shown, it certainly seems like he’s well on his way to securing a roster spot.
“Usually, position changes end poorly in the NFL. In the case of a receiver-to-cornerback conversion, it’s hard to compete with players who’ve played a position for a decade while going against players who’ve played that position for a decade. Melton, though, has played with surprising consistency. It’s not as if receivers are running past him for big plays, dusting him on double moves or beating him on contested catches. He hasn’t been perfect – no cornerback is perfect – but he’s well on his way to earning his spot on the 53-man roster,” SI’s Bill Huber wrote.
On Saturday, Melton may have unintentionally revealed his current standing with the team — through his sideline apparel.
“If you thought Bo Melton wasn’t a roster lock, he was wearing a ball cap with his pads off on the sideline in the third quarter,” Packers insider Matt Schneidman wrote.
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Melton looked relaxed on the sideline during the game — a sign that he may already feel secure in his position. A player still fighting for a spot would typically stay ready at all times, but Melton appeared to know his night was over. He’s been impressing throughout camp, and it certainly feels like he believes he’s done enough to stick.
