Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-Imagn Images
Matthew Golden, a wide receiver who played for the Houston Cougars and later the Texas Longhorns, is among the top WR prospects for the 2025 NFL Draft. Projected as a first-round pick, Golden is known for his burst off the line, strong hands in traffic, and separation. He earned a prospect grade of 6.42 out of 8.00, a total score of 82, and ranked fifth among receivers at the NFL Combine. ESPN’s Jordan Reid projects him as the No. 18 pick to the Seattle Seahawks, while Mel Kiper Jr. slots him at No. 12 to the Dallas Cowboys.
A Houston, Texas, native, Golden starred at Klein Cain High School as a four-star recruit. Originally committed to Texas Christian University, he later joined the University of Houston, where he played two seasons and earned second-team All-Big 12 honors in 2023. He then transferred to the University of Texas at Austin for his junior year. Over three college seasons, Golden started 33 of 36 games, recording 134 receptions for 1,975 yards and 22 touchdowns.
Matthew Golden’s Height
Matthew Golden stands 5 ft 11 in, giving him a smaller frame built for quick separation and sharp route running.
Matthew Golden’s Weight
At 191 pounds, Matthew Golden has the strength to break through contact, all while maintaining his top speed after the catch.
Matthew Golden is a twitchy, explosive route runner, with sharp stems that instantly create separation, and the requisite strong hands and body control to match.
He’s weirdly getting faded BECAUSE of his 4.29 speed.
His production was low. That’s Texas / Ewers.
He’s legit. pic.twitter.com/gLtdHkWXrm
— Dynasty Zoltan (@DynastyZoltanFF) April 10, 2025
Matthew Golden’s Arm Length
Matthew Golden’s 30⅝-inch arms help him extend for catches outside his frame, especially on sideline routes.
Matthew Golden’s Hand Span
With 9½-inch hands, Matthew Golden shows strong grip control, crucial for securing passes in traffic.
Matthew Golden’s 40-Yard Dash
Matthew Golden’s 40-yard dash was a blazing fast 4.29 seconds, one of the reasons for him being the top WR prospect.
Matthew Golden’s 10-Yard Split
Matthew Golden’s 1.49-second 10-yard split shows his burst off the line, significant for beating defenders at the snap.