Packers.com has consulted more than two dozen mock drafts from reputable national outlets and compiled a list of players most frequently mocked as draft selections in the latter portion of the first round (picks 18-28) who could be available when the Packers are on the clock at No. 23 overall.
Between now and draft day, those players will be profiled with thumbnail sketches and videos known as "Prospect Primers."
Today's player is …
Matthew Golden, WR, Texas
Height/Weight: 5-11, 191
Key stats: Caught 58 passes for 987 yards and nine TDs over 16 games last season as the Longhorns' leading receiver.
College honors: At Houston in 2023 prior to transferring, was named second-team All-Big 12 as a return specialist and honorable mention All-Big 12 for special teams player of the year.
Background/other info: Two highly touted receivers transferred to Texas in 2024 – Alabama's Isaiah Bond and Houston's Golden, and it was Golden who became the Longhorns' No. 1 threat. Averaged 17.0 yards per catch after posting lesser numbers at Houston, where his 2023 season was cut short due to a foot injury. All told, in 36 college games at the two schools, caught 134 passes for 1,975 yards and 22 TDs. Also returned two kickoffs for TDs at Houston in 2023. Boosted his draft stock by clocking the fastest 40 time among all receivers at the scouting combine, running a 4.29. Speed, separation and contested-catch ability are among best traits, with questions about blocking ability and drops (reportedly 13 over three seasons). Will be just 21 years old when drafted, turning 22 in training camp.
