GREEN BAY, Wis. — Green Bay Packers quarterback Jordan Love singled out rookie wide receiver Matthew Golden as the most impressive newcomer during training camp, highlighting the first-round pick’s potential to make an immediate impact. Love expressed confidence in Golden’s abilities, noting his aggressive approach to catching passes, fluid route running and exceptional speed.
The quarterback emphasized how Golden arrived polished and started making plays from the first day of camp.
The Packers selected Golden with the 23rd overall pick in the 2025 NFL Draft, out of Texas. The pick ended a 23-year drought without a first-round wide receiver for the Packers. The team last drafted a receiver in the opening round in 2002, when it took Javon Walker.
Golden transferred to Texas after two seasons at Houston, where he amassed 76 receptions for 988 yards and 13 touchdowns. In his lone year with the Longhorns, he led the team with 58 catches for 987 yards and nine touchdowns, averaging 17 yards per reception. He also returned two kickoffs for scores during his college career.
Scouts clocked Golden at 4.29 seconds in the 40-yard dash at the scouting combine, the fastest time among wide receivers and second-fastest overall. That blazing speed, combined with his explosive athleticism and strong hands, positions him to stretch defenses and win contested balls.
Packers coaches and teammates observed Golden’s quick adaptation to the NFL level. He excelled in one-on-one drills, hauling in deep passes and finding open zones against veteran defenders. His versatility allows deployment inside, outside or even from the backfield, adding flexibility to an offense that already features young talents like Jayden Reed, Romeo Doubs and Dontayvion Wicks.
General manager Brian Gutekunst praised Golden’s professionalism and standout hands during camp, underscoring his readiness to contribute. The rookie focused on building chemistry with Love, emphasizing precise timing and trust in the quarterback’s progressions.
Golden chose jersey number 22, honoring his grandmother’s favorite digit and acknowledging the Packers’ 2002 draft milestone. He arrived motivated, carrying a chain with the number as a reminder of family support.
With Christian Watson sidelined early due to a torn ACL from last season, Golden steps into a prime opportunity. The Packers’ receiving corps ranked among the league’s fastest last year, and Golden’s addition amplifies that threat.
Analysts project Golden to start in Week 1, potentially emerging as Love’s go-to target. His playmaking flair and route precision could elevate Green Bay’s passing attack, which seeks consistency after drops plagued the group in 2024.
As training camp progresses, Golden continues to impress, signaling a breakout rookie campaign. The Packers open their season Sept. 7 at home against the Detroit Lions, where Golden aims to showcase his skills on a spotlight stage.
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