The Green Bay Packers made a savvy move on Tuesday to re-sign three exclusive rights free agents (ERFAs) who are going to be a big part of their future. Wide receiver Bo Melton, punter Daniel Whelan and running back Emanuel Wilson all signed their tenders. That means they’re sticking with the team for the upcoming season.
That decision shows just how much the Packers value retaining the depth and continuity that those players bring to the roster. Let’s take a look at each player, and what their return means for the team.
Emanuel Wilson: The Reliable Backfield Presence You Can Count On
Emanuel Wilson, 25, made the most of his rookie season in 2024. He played all 17 games for the Packers. That’s a testament to the work he put in after joining the team as an undrafted free agent from Fort Valley State. Wilson had a brief stint with the Denver Broncos before that, but he quickly carved out a spot on the Packers’ roster.
Wilson finished the season with 103 carries for 502 rushing yards and four touchdowns. That shows he can be a reliable backup. And he added 11 receptions for 48 yards and a touchdown, proving he can do more than just run. That versatility is a real asset for the Packers.
Wilson’s journey to the NFL wasn’t easy. He went undrafted in 2023 and was cut by the Broncos just a few months after signing. But he didn’t let that setback stop him. After playing seven games before getting hurt in 2023, Wilson came back stronger than ever in 2024. That perseverance paid off when he landed with the Packers. And now he’s solidified his role on the team.
Bo Melton: Utility Wide Receiver
Bo Melton, 25, has carved out a role for himself in Green Bay. He played in all 17 games last season and had 8 receptions for 91 yards. His stats don’t jump off the page but his value is in his reliability and special teams.
Melton was a 7th round pick of the Tennessee Titans in 2022 but spent time on the Seahawks’ practice squad before the Packers picked him up late that year. In 2023, he played 5 games with 1 start and had 16 receptions for 218 yards and a touchdown. He’s familiar with the system, so he’s a valuable asset moving forward.
Daniel Whelan: Consistency at Punter
Punter Daniel Whelan, 26, has been a steady presence for the Packers the last two seasons. He’s got a strong leg and averaged 46.2 yards per punt on 113 attempts with a net average of 39.5 yards.
Special teams often gets overlooked but having a reliable punter like Whelan can make a big difference in field position and game management. His re-signing ensures stability in this important role as the Packers look to build on last season.
Why These Moves Matter for the Packers?
Re-signing these three players shows the Packers are committed to depth and experience on their roster. None of these signings will get the headlines of a big trade or high profile free agent but they’re important to building a well rounded team for 2025.
Exclusive rights free agents are players with less than 3 accrued NFL seasons whose contracts expire and their original team has the option to retain them by tendering them. For the Packers, re-signing Wilson, Melton and Whelan was a no brainer as all three have shown they can contribute in meaningful ways.
Looking Ahead for the Packers
Now that these are official the Packers can focus on other areas of need as they prepare for 2025. Whether it’s through the draft, more free agency or contract negotiations, the front office is prioritizing stability and continuity.
For now fans can rest easy knowing Emanuel Wilson, Bo Melton and Daniel Whelan will be back in green and gold next season.
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