By Tori Wittenbrock
Sports Editor

GREEN BAY – Though 1957-66 Green Bay Packers’ Halfback Paul Hornung has been famously heralded as Green Bay’s Golden Boy, the 2025 NFL Draft has brought in a new contender for the title.

With the 23rd pick of the 2025 NFL Draft, the Green Bay Packers used their first Round 1 pick since 2002 to select a wide receiver, bringing Matthew Golden to Titletown.

“I can’t even explain the feeling. I’m so blessed to be here. God put me in this position and I can’t thank him enough. Being able to play for an organization like this means everything,” said Golden in his post-Draft press conference.

After a 2024 season with 58 receptions in 16 games played, for 9 touchdowns and 987 yards, Golden has significant potential to make an impact to the Packers’ roster – especially given the season-ending ALC tear suffered by Christian Watson last year.

“I’m approaching it with a chip on my shoulder. I’m never complacent, always trying to get better. I’m here to compete and I’m here to play. Being able to play for an offense like that is definitely exciting,” said Golden.

“I’ve always got the mind set to be the best on the field and the best in the country. I always told myself that when I was younger that if I got the opportunity to show the world what I could do, then that’s what I was going to do.”

During the 2025 NFL Draft, Golden donned a golden Versace suit, fitting of both his persona, and the green and gold culture he would unknowingly be welcomed into.

“This gold suit, I think it gave them a reason to come and get me,” said Golden.

“I’m just taking it in. I put in so much work to get here and I’m just excited.

Golden said that as one of the newest members of the Green Bay Packers community, he is looking forward to proving his worth to the team.

“My message to the fans is you’re getting a complete player. You’re getting a guy that’s willing to come in and work each and every day. I want to win games. Whatever I’ve got to do to win games, that’s what I’m here to do,” said Golden.

“I love the game of football and I know I’m somewhere they love football. The culture here… I felt it. It’s a tight group and they really care for each other. Being able to play for an organization like this, it means a lot. I know that they are going to push me to be the best version of myself each and every day.”

Keywords

2025 NFL Draft,

Green Bay Packers,

Wide Receiver Matthew Golden,

first round pick,

potential,

roster