After a strong junior season at Texas, newly signed Green Bay Packers rookie Matthew Golden is giving back to the people who supported his journey. He became the first wide receiver the Packers have taken in the first round since 2002, a milestone paired with a life-changing signing bonus.
The moment became one of the defining scenes of the 2025 NFL Draft in Green Bay, where the host team used the No. 23 pick to select Golden, a speed threat with a 4.29-second 40-yard dash capable of stretching opposing defenses. His selection, witnessed in person, sparked a jubilant celebration among thousands of cheeseheads as Green Bay’s young offense, led by quarterback Jordan Love, aims to make a leap.
Golden’s four-year rookie deal worth $17.5 million is fully guaranteed and features a $9.42 million signing bonus. The wide receiver has expressed that he plans to make meaningful use of the money. In a recent interview, he was asked what his first purchase would be with his new fortune.
“Definitely get my grandma a house,” Golden said when he was addressing the media. “We lost our property a couple years ago and it would be a blessing to be able to get that back for my family.”
Matthew Golden’s life before the Packers
Golden experienced periods of homelessness during his childhood, a hardship that posed significant challenges in his early life. Despite this, he earned his way to the NFL, and now at 22 years old, the rookie is determined never to face that situation again.
“It was hard just growing up, the times I was without a home, being a young kid, not really understanding why we were in that situation, but I feel like god put us through that for a reason,” Golden continued.
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Golden’s childhood home had deteriorated over the years, and the expense to restore it was simply too steep. Partnering with the real estate firm REMAX, he was able to find a more fitting home for his grandmother. Guiding her up to the entrance of her new house, Golden described it as a “full circle moment.” It was a commitment he had carried for years, and the emotional hug from his grandmother made the journey worthwhile.
With his loved ones now cared for, Golden plans to focus his preparation on the remaining weeks of August. Recent injuries in the wide receiver group could open plenty of chances for him during his rookie campaign. Jordan Love is searching for a reliable target who can seize the role of WR1, and if the Texas product steps into that position, there may be little stopping him from emerging as the next marquee player in the NFC North.
