Packers release WR Bo Melton, intend to retain him on practice squad

Green Bay’s front office announced on Friday that wide receiver Bo Melton was being released from the 53‑man roster, a move that at first glance looks like a routine cut but is, in fact, a calculated roster‑management tactic. While Melton’s name disappeared from the active roster, the Packers immediately signed him to the practice squad, a maneuver confirmed by general manager Brian Gutekunst in the team’s official release.

Since joining the roster in 2023, he has appeared in 38 games, started twice, and posted 28 receptions for 416 yards – an average of 14.9 yards per catch – plus two touchdowns. He also contributed 110 rushing yards on 16 carries, showing occasional versatility. His most valuable contribution, according to first‑year special‑teams coordinator Cam Achord, is as a gunner on punt coverage, a role that rarely makes headlines but is vital for field‑position battles. In 2025 he caught four passes for 107 yards, and last season the coaching staff even tried him at cornerback, underscoring his status as a fringe receiver who can fill multiple niches.

The crux of the move lies in the NFL’s veteran‑exemption rule. Because Melton has four years of credited service, he is not subject to waivers when cut, meaning no other franchise can lay claim to him. This gives Green Bay a rare loophole: they can free a roster spot for the upcoming season opener, then promote Melton back to the 53‑man list after the first game without risking his loss. The organization has employed a similar strategy before, famously releasing long snapper Matt Orzech only to re‑sign him days later. In both cases, the team’s intent is to keep a valued depth piece while navigating the league‑mandated 53‑player limit.

What the Packers have not disclosed is which player will occupy Melton’s vacated slot for Week 1. The practice‑squad signings announced alongside Melton’s include running back Damon Bankston, safety Kahlef Hailassie, long snapper Scott Daly and kicker Lenny Krieg, but the final decision on who moves to the active roster remains opaque.

If the plan unfolds as intended, Melton will line up on special teams against the Vikings, preserving the continuity that Achord praised in camp. The only lingering question is which active‑roster player will be sacrificed for the opening week, a decision that could hint at the team’s immediate tactical priorities and the depth chart they hope to field as the season kicks off.