Where Matthew Golden stands among the 2025 draft class in size, speed, and more.
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.
3+ minutes of Texas WR Matthew Golden absolutely cooking:
— SCOUTD (@scoutdnfl) April 22, 2025
• A natural separating route-runner with elite twitch, burst, and speed. Top-tier ability at the catch point. WR1.
Enjoy the show… https://t.co/YOGJaPCS3D pic.twitter.com/l4FwId2q10
Matthew Golden stands 5 ft 11 in, giving him a smaller frame built for quick separation and sharp route running.
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.
— Dynasty Zoltan (@DynastyZoltanFF) April 10, 2025
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
Matthew Golden’s 30⅝-inch arms help him extend for catches outside his frame, especially on sideline routes.
With 9½-inch hands, Matthew Golden shows strong grip control, crucial for securing passes in traffic.
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 led all WRs in the 40-yard dash at the Combine! 🙌@TexasFootball pic.twitter.com/EqW1WSchW4
— FOX Sports: NFL (@NFLonFOX) March 2, 2025
Matthew Golden’s 1.49-second 10-yard split shows his burst off the line, significant for beating defenders at the snap.
We use cookies for ads and to improve your experience. By continuing on the site, you agree to our Privacy Policy. Read more about it
NFL