Packers' Matthew Golden credits strong faith for reaching NFL: 'He definitely helped me get here'
Matthew Golden, a rookie wide receiver for the Green Bay Packers, attributes his success in reaching the NFL to his unwavering faith and strong family connections. Growing up in Houston, Texas, he developed his faith early in life, which he believes has guided him through adversity, including a significant foot injury during his college football career. Despite challenges, his faith grew stronger, helping him persevere and excel, eventually leading him to transfer to the University of Texas where he had his best collegiate season. His impressive performance, including a remarkable 4.29-second 40-yard dash at the NFL Scouting Combine, solidified his position as one of the top receivers in the 2025 draft class. Golden's selection by the Packers marked a historic moment for the team, as it was the first time since 2002 they picked a receiver in the first round, and he is eager to embark on this new chapter of his football journey, crediting his life experiences and faith for shaping who he is today.
Matthew Golden credits his strong faith and family support for his journey to the NFL, having grown up in a religious environment where he began playing the drums at the age of six.
Golden faced significant adversity during his college career, including a foot injury in 2023 that ended his season early, which he describes as a pivotal moment in strengthening his faith.
Following his injury, Golden transferred from the University of Houston to the University of Texas, where he posted his best collegiate season with 58 receptions, 987 yards, and nine touchdowns, helping the team reach the College Football Playoff.
His standout performance continued at the NFL Scouting Combine, where he ran a 4.29-second 40-yard dash, cementing his status as one of the top wide receivers in the draft class of 2025.
The Green Bay Packers selected Matthew Golden with the 23rd overall pick, marking the first time since 2002 the team chose a receiver in the first round, highlighting the significant impact he is expected to make.
Golden reflects on his journey, acknowledging that his faith and life experiences have been instrumental in shaping his character and career, expressing gratitude for the challenges that have led him to this point.
As he embarks on his professional career with the Packers, Golden is determined to prove himself and is motivated by his belief that everything he has experienced happened for a reason, reinforcing his commitment to his faith and ambitions in football.