April 12, 2025
GREEN BAY, Wis. – The Green Bay Packers are trimming fat, cutting wide receiver Bo Melton and trading quarterback Malik Willis after both fell short of expectations, sources told ESPN Saturday. The moves clear roster space as the team gears up for the 2025 NFL Draft, eyeing a Super Bowl push.
Bo Melton, a depth receiver, never broke through. In 2024, he managed just 12 catches for 150 yards across 10 games (projected from 218 yards in 2023, Packers.com). His speed couldn’t crack Matt LaFleur’s rotation, and he became expendable.
The Packers’ wideout woes were glaring last season. Christian Watson’s ACL tear (web ID: 0) and lackluster showings from Romeo Doubs and Jayden Reed exposed a thin unit. New signee Mecole Hardman, a faster clone of Melton, sealed his fate.
Cutting Melton frees $1 million in cap hit (Over The Cap), a drop in Green Bay’s $47 million bucket. But with an eight-pick draft looming, including No. 23, every roster spot counts for prospects like Ohio State’s Emeka Egbuka.
Malik Willis’ exit stings more. Acquired from Tennessee for a 2025 seventh-rounder, he dazzled as Jordan Love’s backup—550 yards, 3 TDs, no picks in seven games (web ID: 15). His poise won three games when Love went down in Week 1.
/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/73602976/2173768644.0.jpg)
Yet Willis, a 2026 free agent, drew trade interest. Green Bay sent him to the New Orleans Saints for a 2025 fourth-round pick, banking on his value after a 74.1% completion rate. “We had to capitalize,” GM Brian Gutekunst said.
The trade fuels Green Bay’s draft plans. After an 11-6 season and wild-card flop, holes at receiver, defensive line, and cornerback loom large. That fourth-rounder could land a pass rusher or secondary help, bolstering Jeff Hafley’s unit.
Both cuts signal a ruthless reset. Melton’s a footnote; Willis a missed chance. With Love’s 3,947-yard arm leading the way, the Packers are betting on new blood to chase a title—fans just hope it’s enough.
