Green Bay Packers receiver Bo Melton has two traits that should earn him a eternal role on Matt LaFleur’s team: elite speed and a run-blocking mentality.
LaFleur said Melton’s key attributes – which fully emerged delayed in the 2023 season – facilitate give the third-year backup a role he can take on.
“You’re always trying to find out what the guys can do and what they do really well. And Bo has an elite trait: he can run,” LaFleur said. “Any time you can add value in other areas… Because he’s one of our best run blockers. He’s not the biggest guy, but that’s his mentality. He has a dog mentality whether it’s the run game or the pass game. He is ready to do anything to get on the pitch. He has embraced this, he has embraced his role and he is excellent at it.
Melton, who was drafted by Rutgers in the seventh round in 2022, ran the 40-yard dash in 4.34 seconds in the NFL. In 2022, he was the fifth fastest winger and eighth fastest player overall. Among receivers, his 40-yard dash time ranks in the 94th percentile. There’s no doubt about it: Melton has elite speed.
Mentality is harder to measure. Melton can be classified between 5 and 11 pounds and 189 pounds, but a receiver doesn’t have to be massive to win in the run game. Effort and understanding can turn any receiver into a capable blocker.
LaFleur demands blocking effort and execution from his receivers in his offense. Melton checks the box. Per Football Focus, Melton led all Packers receivers in run blocking class through the final five games of the 2023 regular season.
Speed gives Melton real value in LaFleur’s spread passing game. The run blocking effort ensures that Melton can play in any situation.
Over the final five games of last season, Melton caught 16 passes for 218 yards and a score. He added another touchdown in the postseason. Can Melton take advantage of his late-season growth, leverage his elite traits and facilitate the Packers become even better on offense in 2024?
