Matthew Golden, a rookie with the Green Bay Packers, has chosen to wear the unconventional number 22, typically associated with running backs or defensive backs, for his position as a wide receiver. This decision follows his college tradition where he wore the number 2 at Houston and Texas, and parallels the legendary NFL wide receiver Bob Hayes, who also wore 22. Golden's choice has generated curiosity and may set a new trend among wide receivers if he performs well, as the reception of a player's uniform number often correlates with their on-field success. Packers fans are intrigued by this bold choice, considering the team has not selected a receiver this high in the draft since 2002. The popularity of Golden's jersey will likely depend on his performance, as he aims to match the expectations of a first-round pick.

Matthew Golden, drafted by the Green Bay Packers, initially was expected to wear number 81, but switched to number 22, a choice unusual for a wide receiver.

The number 22 is traditionally worn by running backs or defensive backs, but Golden's decision reflects his college career at Houston and Texas, where he wore number 2.

This choice echoes the legacy of NFL icon Bob Hayes, also known as 'Bullet', who famously wore number 22 as a wide receiver.

Golden's decision to wear number 22 could influence a trend in the NFL, contingent on his performance, as unique uniform numbers tend to gain popularity if associated with standout players.

Packers fans are excited by Golden's potential, as he is the first receiver the team has picked so high in the draft since 2002, adding to the anticipation around his unconventional jersey number.

The allure of Golden's jersey is heightened by the aesthetic appeal of repeating numerals and the memorable combination of his last name, which could boost its trendiness among fans.

Billy Heyen, a sports writer, highlights Golden's number choice as a test case in the evolving dynamics of player branding and fan engagement in the NFL.

Matthew Golden was supposed to be wearing No. 81 for the Packers. That's what Desmond Howard said on the night of the NFL Draft first round.

But Green Bay and Golden have made a switch.

Now? He'll be No. 22.

That's a running back or defensive back number if we've ever seen one.

Golden likely picked 22 because he wore No. 2 at both his college stops, Houston and Texas.

There's also one speedy NFL legend who wore 22 at the receiver position: Bob Hayes, who was known as "Bullet."

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It'll certainly be a trendy jersey purchase for Packers fans.

Those repeating numerals always look cool, and when you add the last name Golden on top of it, it's a strong combination.

Maybe Golden will start a trend of wideouts taking numbers that were previously reserved for backs.

It'll probably depend on how well he plays. The cooler someone looks in a uniform number, usually based on their performance, has a big impact on what things stick around.

Golden's No. 22 is a test case, and an odd choice, but Packers fans will be happy as long as he plays like a first-round pick, considering they hadn't chosen a receiver that high since 2002.

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