Matthew Golden will go down in history as the player who ended the Green Bay Packers' two-decade-long streak of avoiding wide receivers in the first round of the NFL Draft. A few weeks before the event, the Packers hosted Golden for a pre-draft visit, so their interest in him was hardly a secret.
Golden joins a receiving corps that has considerable diversity but lacks a clear number one option. As a result, he should have ample opportunities to claim that role, and he undoubtedly has the talent to accomplish such a feat. However, Green Bay's fanbase needs to temper expectations and allow him the time to fully acclimate to the offense and the speed of the professional level.
While it is important to temper expectations, there is no harm in hoping that a first-round pick delivers a productive rookie season. One NFL expert believes Golden is due for a standout year, and he could change the dynamic within Green Bay's offense.
"Green Bay wideout Matthew Golden will lead all rookies in receiving yards," ESPN's Eric Moody wrote.
"I think Golden will outshine Hunter and Tetairoa McMillan in the 2025 season," he continued. "It's rare for the Packers to take a wide receiver in the first round, and Golden finds himself in an ideal situation with rising quarterback Jordan Love and offensive-minded coach Matt LaFleur. Could Golden be the 2025 version of Brian Thomas Jr.?"
Golden is coming off career highs in college in targets, receptions, receiving touchdowns, and yards per reception. Matt LaFleur can incorporate him into the offense in many ways, but he should emerge as Green Bay's primary deep threat while Christian Watson recovers from a torn ACL. His ability to stretch the field and make explosive plays could be pivotal in filling the void and adding a new dynamic to the Packers’ passing attack.
Green Bay should foster an open competition for the number one receiver spot, and there is a strong case that at least four receivers could claim that role. Golden’s talent makes him a prime candidate to emerge as the top option, but he needs to prove himself during training camp and the preseason.
