It didn’t take long for Green Bay Packers rookie wide receiver Matthew Golden to make his presence felt.
In an offense predicated on speed, timing, and creating mismatches downfield, Golden has quickly become one of Jordan Love’s most trusted big-play targets.
But, five games into the first round pick out of Texas’ role is beginning to come into focus for Golden as he continues to climb Love’s target hierarchy.
What Packers learned from Matthew Golden’s breakout game vs. Cincinnati Bengals
Oct 12, 2025; Green Bay, Wisconsin, USA; Green Bay Packers wide receiver Matthew Golden (0) reacts after a 45-yard reception during the second quarter of their game against the Cincinnati Bengals at Lambeau Field. Mandatory Credit: Mark Hoffman-USA TODAY Network via Imagn Images
Last Sunday against the Bengals, Golden was one of the Packers’ offensive catalysts in a 27-18 victory, posting a career-high 86 yards on three catches.
As Pro Football Focus points out, Golden is starting to thrive all over the field and throughout the route tree in head coach Matt LaFleur’s offense.
“The rookie averaged 6.7 yards after the catch per reception [vs. the Bengals],” Lauren Gray writes for PFF. “And now has three consecutive games with at least three catches and 50 receiving yards.
“The Packers’ first-round pick has caught 14 of 19 passes for 212 yards this season, the second most among Green Bay receivers. Half of his catches have moved the chains, including five gains of 20-plus yards. Golden’s target share has been spread out evenly across every level of the field, with the bulk of his targets (seven) coming deep. The speedster has brought in four deep passes for 146 yards, accounting for 69% of his receiving total.”
Sunday made it evident that Golden is plenty capable both of taking the top off an opposing defense deep downfield and also turning an intermediate catch into a big play.
So far this season, Golden, whom Pro Football Focus lists as the No. 32 ranked receiver in the league, has caught 14 passes for 212 yards, while averaging an explosive 15.1 yards per carry.
However, if the past two weeks are any indication, Golden might merely be scratching the surface.
Sep 21, 2025; Cleveland, Ohio, USA; Green Bay Packers wide receiver Matthew Golden (0) catches the ball during warm ups before the game against the Cleveland Browns at Huntington Bank Field. Mandatory Credit: Scott Galvin-Imagn Images