The Green Bay Packers made waves by selecting wide receiver (WR) Matthew Golden with the 23rd overall pick in the first round of the 2025 NFL Draft, ending a 23-year drought of not drafting a WR in the first round since Javon Walker in 2002. The signing of Golden, announced on May 19, 2025, marked a turning point in the Packers’ roster-building strategy. With a fully guaranteed $17.58 million rookie contract, Golden is expected to bring a fresh dynamic to the team’s offense. Here are five shocking facts about this promising rookie, based on his journey and talent.
1. Explosive Speed with an Impressive 40-Yard Dash Time
Matthew Golden stunned scouts at the 2025 NFL Scouting Combine by running the 40-yard dash in a blazing 4.29 seconds, the fastest among wide receivers in attendance. This speed not only made him stand out but also convinced the Packers to select him, especially as they needed a replacement for Christian Watson, who suffered an ACL injury and is expected to miss time until mid-2025. Golden’s not just fast—he has quick directional changes and instant acceleration, making him a threat at all three levels of the field.
2. A Gritty Journey from Humble Beginnings
Golden’s path to the NFL was far from easy. He endured tough times, living in motels and even sleeping in a Walmart parking lot with his family after losing their home. For three years, Golden lived with a teammate to get through these challenges. These hardships forged his resilient mindset, and he vowed to use his NFL contract money to buy a house for his grandmother. His story of perseverance makes Golden not just a talented player but also an inspiring figure.
3. A Product of Two Elite College Programs
Golden is a unique case, having developed his career through two renowned college football programs: Houston and Texas. During his two seasons at Houston (2022-2023), he recorded 13 receiving touchdowns and 2 kickoff return touchdowns. After transferring to Texas in 2024, Golden exploded with 58 receptions, 987 yards, and 9 touchdowns, leading the Longhorns in receiving yards and touchdowns. His ability to adapt quickly and shine in the competitive SEC environment proved his NFL potential.
4. Breaking the Packers’ Longstanding Draft Drought
The Packers’ selection of Golden marks the first time in 23 years they’ve chosen a wide receiver in the first round, since Javon Walker in 2002. For over two decades, the Packers have been known for building their offense with second-round or later picks, such as Jordy Nelson, Randall Cobb, and Davante Adams. Golden’s arrival not only breaks this tradition but also carries high expectations from fans, especially after being warmly welcomed by 205,000 spectators at Lambeau Field on draft night.
5. Potential to Be a WR1 and Versatile Playmaker
Despite standing at 5 feet 11 inches and weighing 191 pounds, Golden is rated as a versatile receiver capable of playing any wide receiver position (X, slot, Z) and contributing on special teams with his kickoff and punt return skills. He has reliable hands, excels in contested catches, and runs crisp routes to create separation against cornerbacks. With the Packers’ young receiving corps, including Jayden Reed, Romeo Doubs, and Dontayvion Wicks, Golden is projected to compete fiercely to become quarterback Jordan Love’s primary target in the near future.
Conclusion
Matthew Golden is not just a surprising first-round pick for the Green Bay Packers but also a story of talent, resilience, and breakout potential. With his speed, skills, and iron-willed mentality, he promises to be a key piece in the Packers’ quest to return to the top. Fans in Green Bay are buzzing with excitement, and time will tell if Golden can live up to the “Gold Standard” as expected.