
The Green Bay Packers are putting pen to paper with first-round wide receiver Matthew Golden.
The Packers officially signed the former Texas Longhorns star to his rookie contract Monday. The four-year, fully-guaranteed contract is worth $17.57 million with an approximate signing bonus of $9.42 million.
Golden is now Green Bay’s current highest-paid pass catcher by average annual value with $4.39 million.
Golden was the No. 23 overall selection by Green Bay in last month’s draft. It marked the first time the Packers had selected a receiver in the first round since 2002 (Javon Walker).
Golden will wear the No. 22 for his rookie season. He told reporters that his grandmother is the inspiration behind the decision.
“My grandma, her favorite number was two growing up, and she told me she wanted me to represent that number,” Golden said in a press conference. “I knew the last receiver that was drafted [by the Packers in the first round] was 2002, so I feel like it kinda just made sense to me. … Definitely my best friend, she helped me get to this point. I feel like me being here I can give her all the thanks for helping me get here. The rest is on me to come out here and have fun and compete.”
Golden had 58 catches for 987 yards and nine touchdowns during his only year with Texas this past season. He’ll look to contend for Green Bay’s WR1 role next season as a rookie.
Prior to the start of the draft, Golden spoke with the Texas social media team, saying that any recruits who want to make their NFL dreams come true need to go to Austin.
“To me, if I was in college right now, to any college player I’d tell you to go to Texas, man,” Golden said. “They develop some real dawgs and they’ll get you to the next level.”
Golden and the Packers will begin the preseason on Aug. 9 against the New York Jets. Green Bay’s regular-season opener is against the Detroit Lions on Sept. 7.

Breaking News: Green Bay Packers Secure First-Round Wide Receiver Talent Matthew Golden with Fully-Guaranteed Multi-Million Dollar Rookie Contract
In a significant move to bolster their offensive arsenal, the Green Bay Packers have officially finalized the signing of former Texas Longhorns standout wide receiver, Matthew Golden. The promising young playmaker is now set to embark on his professional football journey after being selected in the first round of the NFL Draft by the historic Packers franchise. Golden’s entry into the league comes with high expectations and a fully-guaranteed contract valued at an impressive $9.42 million over a four-year term.
This substantial investment by the Packers not only highlights their belief in Golden’s immense potential, but also reinforces the team’s commitment to developing a dynamic and explosive receiving corps for the future. As a first-round draft selection, Golden will be expected to make an immediate impact, both as a reliable target for the quarterback and as a strategic weapon capable of stretching the field and creating mismatches against opposing defenses.
During his time with the Texas Longhorns, Golden established himself as one of the most dynamic and productive wide receivers in the collegiate game. Known for his exceptional speed, precise route-running, and strong hands, Golden consistently delivered big plays and showcased the ability to perform under pressure. His collegiate resume, filled with impressive stats and highlight-reel catches, made him a highly-coveted prospect entering the draft.
The Packers’ front office has made it clear that Golden’s unique skill set and work ethic align perfectly with the team’s vision for the offense moving forward. Head coach and team executives praised Golden during his introductory press conference, emphasizing his maturity, football intelligence, and readiness to compete at the professional level.
Golden’s contract, which is fully guaranteed, not only secures his financial future, but also reflects the organization’s full confidence in his ability to contribute meaningfully from day one. The deal includes standard rookie benefits, signing bonuses, and performance-related incentives, aligning with what is typically offered to high first-round picks.
As the Packers prepare for training camp and the upcoming season, all eyes will be on Matthew Golden as he adapts to the speed and physicality of the NFL. Fans and analysts alike are eager to see how the former Longhorn star will transition into the league and whether he can live up to the lofty expectations that come with being a first-round pick in Green Bay — a city known for its rich football history and passionate fan base.
With his college career behind him and a new chapter beginning in the NFL, Matthew Golden is poised to become a key figure in the Packers’ offensive scheme for years to come.
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