Packers Select WR Matthew Golden, End 23-Year Drought

The Green Bay Packers broke a 23-year streak without selecting a wide receiver in the first round by picking Matthew Golden from Texas with the 23rd overall pick in the 2025 NFL Draft. Golden, a Houston native who transferred from Houston to Texas, had a standout season with the Longhorns, recording 987 receiving yards and nine touchdowns in 2024. Known for his impressive 4.29-second 40-yard dash at the NFL Combine, Golden has elite speed and the versatility to play all three receiver spots, though scouts note his in-game speed does not always match his track time. He is recognized for his consistent productivity across all levels of the field, strong hands, and ability to make contested catches, with room to improve his route running and yards after the catch. Packers fans enthusiastically welcomed Golden, hoping he can develop into a top receiving threat for quarterback Jordan Love. The pick is seen as a significant move to bolster Green Bay's receiving corps and potentially provide a new WR1 for the team.