Green Bay, WI – May 21, 2025 – The Green Bay Packers may have found their next star, and ESPN believes Matthew Golden is poised to claim the coveted Rookie of the Year title. The first-round pick (No. 32 overall) has already turned heads during the offseason, and projections suggest he’s on track to outshine his peers in a major way.
Golden’s maturity and character shone through when he shared his plans for his first NFL paycheck. “Definitely get my grandma a house, man,” he told reporters. “We lost our property a couple of years ago. That’s somewhere I grew up when I was younger. It’d be a blessing to be able to get that back for my family.” His words resonate with Packers Nation, underscoring his grounded nature amidst rising expectations.
On the field, Golden’s elite speed and route-running ability have been impossible to ignore. “He’s got a chance to be special,” wide receivers coach Jason Vrable told The Green Bay Press-Gazette. “His hands and separation skills are already NFL-caliber.” ESPN’s latest projections place Golden at the top of the rookie class, predicting he’ll lead all first-year receivers in touchdowns with 6, despite falling just short of the yardage leader with 889 receiving yards.
“Matthew Golden is the frontrunner for Rookie of the Year,” ESPN’s Mel Kiper Jr. wrote. “His combination of speed, route precision, and clutch performance makes him a standout. If he stays healthy, he could very well be the best rookie in this class.” Kiper’s endorsement is significant, given his track record of accurate predictions.
The Packers, coming off a season where they were swept by the Detroit Lions, need Golden to deliver. With Jaire Alexander’s contract situation still unresolved, the offensive firepower Golden provides could be crucial. “He’s not just a luxury; he’s a necessity,” GM Brian Gutekunst said.
Fans on X are already rallying behind him. “Golden for ROTY? Let’s go!” tweeted one, while another said, “Packers might have a gem on their hands.” NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport noted, “This prediction could be the spark Green Bay needs to reclaim the NFC North.”
As the season approaches, Golden’s journey from promising prospect to Rookie of the Year candidate is one to watch. For Packers Nation, it’s about hope and redemption. For Golden, it’s about proving ESPN right.