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Packers Project Big Sophomore Jump for WR Matthew Golden

Coaches point to his playoff breakout, offseason strength gains and newly open outside snaps after roster departures as reasons he could become a primary outside receiver.

Overview

  • This week Packers coach Matt LaFleur and multiple teammates publicly said they expect Golden to play a much larger role in his second NFL season and urged him to seize the opportunity.
  • Golden told reporters he is confident and will “prove myself right” after an offseason of added muscle and extra work on the playbook.
  • As a rookie in 2025 Golden had 29 catches for 361 yards and started five games, but he flashed high upside with a four-catch, 84-yard touchdown performance in the Wild Card loss to Chicago.
  • Offseason moves that sent Romeo Doubs to New England and Dontayvion Wicks to Philadelphia have opened outside receiver snaps in Green Bay and cleared a path for Golden to move into a larger role opposite Jayden Reed.
  • Analysts temper expectations by noting his draft-slot peers often take longer to produce consistently, so the 2026 season will be an important test of whether Golden’s speed and late-season flashes translate to sustained NFL production.