In a move that broke a two-decade trend, the Green Bay Packers used their first-round pick in the 2025 NFL Draft to select wide receiver Matthew Golden, marking the first time since 2002 that the team has drafted a receiver in the opening round. Taken with the 23rd overall pick, Golden’s selection underscores Green Bay’s renewed focus on strengthening its offensive firepower, especially in the passing game.
Golden, originally from Houston, Texas, began his college football career at the University of Houston before transferring to the University of Texas for the 2024 season. His lone season with the Longhorns proved to be a breakout year. He led the team with 58 receptions, tallying 987 receiving yards and scoring nine touchdowns. His standout performances, particularly in clutch games like the SEC Championship against Georgia, helped solidify his reputation as a reliable and explosive playmaker.
At the NFL Scouting Combine, Golden caught the attention of teams and scouts across the league with his impressive physical tools. He ran a blazing 4.29-second 40-yard dash, the fastest time recorded among all wide receivers in the event. Beyond his speed, Golden showcased exceptional body control, sharp route-running, and the ability to haul in difficult catches near the sidelines—traits that make him an immediate threat at the professional level.
The Packers’ decision to draft a wide receiver in the first round comes after years of bypassing the position early in the draft, often drawing criticism from fans and analysts alike. Since drafting Javon Walker in 2002, the team had avoided spending a first-round pick on a receiver, even during the prime years of former quarterback Aaron Rodgers. The selection of Golden appears to be a clear sign that Green Bay is looking to give current starting quarterback Jordan Love more weapons to work with as he continues to grow into his role as the team’s leader.
Golden’s arrival adds another dimension to the Packers’ young receiving corps, which already includes emerging talents like Christian Watson, Romeo Doubs, and Jayden Reed. His elite speed and deep-threat capability could open up the field for Love and keep opposing defenses on their heels. Analysts believe Golden has the tools to make an immediate impact and potentially develop into a top target in the Packers’ offense.
From a team-building perspective, this draft pick signals a philosophical shift for the Packers. Rather than focusing solely on defense or line play in the early rounds, as they have in previous years, Green Bay appears to be prioritizing dynamic offensive talent to match the evolving style of play in today’s NFL. With the league increasingly dominated by high-powered passing attacks, securing a top-tier receiver like Golden could pay dividends for the Packers in both the short and long term.
For Golden, joining the Packers represents both an honor and a significant opportunity. Green Bay’s storied history and passionate fan base make it one of the most iconic franchises in football, and he’ll be expected to contribute right away. Given his college production, physical gifts, and performance during pre-draft evaluations, Golden looks well-equipped to rise to the challenge.
Ultimately, the selection of Matthew Golden could mark the beginning of a new era for the Packers’ offense. If he lives up to his potential, this pick may be remembered as a turning point—both for a franchise that’s long resisted drafting wide receivers early and for a young quarterback looking for a go-to target. Time will tell, but the early signs suggest that Golden could become a cornerstone of Green Bay’s offensive identity for years to come.
