Packers' $17 million rookie impressing early, could prompt veteran WR trade

Last year, the Packers made it to the postseason. Now, with one of the league’s most exciting young quarterbacks, Jordan Love, returning to lead the offense, optimism remains strong. Adding to that excitement is the team’s first-round pick, who could quickly become a breakout star.

Matthew Golden emerged as the WR1 during his final year at Texas, and he’s now looking to make an immediate impact in Green Bay. All early signs point to Golden making noise at rookie camp. In fact, he’s already drawing major praise, with some believing he could outshine high-profile prospects like Travis Hunter and Tetairoa McMillan.

“Green Bay wideout Matthew Golden will lead all rookies in receiving yards. I think Golden will outshine Hunter and Tetairoa McMillan in the 2025 season. It's rare for the Packers to take a wide receiver in the first round, and Golden finds himself in an ideal situation with rising quarterback Jordan Love and offensive-minded coach Matt LaFleur. Could Golden be the 2025 version of Brian Thomas Jr.?" ESPN’s Eric Moody said.

Sports Illustrated’s Albert Breer echoed the excitement and hinted that Golden’s emergence could have roster implications:

“The Packers picked the fastest receiver in the draft, Matthew Golden, and early returns from Green Bay say the rookie’s overall athleticism has already shown up," Breer wrote. "It’ll be interesting to see whether a veteran receiver shakes free in a trade based on Golden’s development."

While it’s unclear which veteran receiver could be on the move, signs point to Jayden Reed remaining with the team—he reportedly met with Packers officials on Monday. Meanwhile, the Pittsburgh Steelers have already expressed interest in Romeo Doubs. With Golden's rapid development, anything seems possible.

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Golden has the tools to contend for Rookie of the Year honors—or at least to deliver a standout first season. His elite speed gives him the ability to torch defenses, and as he continues to grow in the offense, the sky’s the limit. So much so that the Packers may be willing to part ways with a veteran receiver to allow Golden to be a main target.