Texas Longhorns Star WR Matthew Golden Receives Major NFL Draft Take
As the 2024 college football season draws to a close, the Texas Longhorns have been in the spotlight for their dominant performances, with players like quarterback Quinn Ewers, defensive back Jahdae Barron, and star wide receiver Matthew Golden playing key roles in the team’s success. While several of Texas’ top players have already received attention from NFL scouts and analysts, one player who has particularly piqued the interest of draft experts is Matthew Golden, the Longhorns’ dynamic wide receiver.
Golden has proven to be one of the most electrifying offensive players in college football, and his stellar performances this season have led many analysts to believe that he could be one of the top wide receivers selected in the upcoming NFL Draft. But while his talent is undeniable, Golden’s journey to the next level has been subject to a wide range of takes and evaluations. In this article, we will delve into Golden’s rise as one of the top receivers in college football, analyze what NFL scouts and draft analysts are saying about him, and predict his future at the next level.
1. Matthew Golden’s Rise to Stardom
Matthew Golden, a standout wide receiver for the Texas Longhorns, has quickly become one of the most talked-about names in college football. After transferring to Texas, Golden quickly made an impact as a top receiving threat in one of the nation’s most potent offenses. His combination of size, speed, and athleticism made him a natural fit in the Longhorns’ high-powered passing game.
Golden’s 2024 season has been nothing short of spectacular. Through the regular season, he registered over 1,200 receiving yards and 15 touchdowns, making him one of the top wide receivers in the nation. His route-running ability is among the best in the country, and he’s shown an innate ability to make plays in clutch moments. Whether it’s a deep bomb down the sideline or a quick slant for a touchdown, Golden has been a constant presence in the Longhorns’ offense, and his performances have made him a favorite target for Texas quarterback Quinn Ewers.
What makes Golden stand out is his versatility. Not only does he have the ability to take the top off a defense with his speed, but he is also an exceptional route runner who can make defenders miss with subtle cuts and quickness. His physicality and high football IQ have allowed him to stand out not just in Big 12 play but on the national stage, where he has routinely faced top-tier competition from conference rivals and out-of-conference opponents.
2. NFL Draft Buzz: Golden’s Future at the Next Level
With Golden’s breakout 2024 season, NFL scouts and draft experts have been closely watching his development. As a player who can impact both the short and deep passing game, Golden is increasingly viewed as a potential first- or second-round selection in the NFL Draft. While there’s still work to be done in terms of proving himself on the big stage in the postseason, his talent has not gone unnoticed, and analysts have had a lot to say about his future at the next level.
A. Strengths that Have NFL Scouts Buzzing
The most common assessments of Golden’s skill set from NFL scouts focus on his physical attributes and versatility. Standing at 6’2″ and weighing 210 pounds, Golden possesses the ideal size for an NFL wide receiver. His frame allows him to win contested catches, while his speed enables him to separate from defenders down the field.
One of Golden’s most impressive traits is his route-running. NFL teams are always looking for wide receivers who can create separation and run crisp, clean routes. Golden’s ability to run a diverse range of routes—whether it’s a quick slant, a fade, or a post—has been consistently praised by experts. His fluidity and ability to quickly change direction allow him to shake defenders in tight coverage, which is a major advantage at the NFL level.
In addition to his route-running, Golden has shown the ability to excel in high-pressure moments. Whether it’s catching passes in tight windows or coming through in critical 3rd-and-long situations, Golden has consistently stepped up when his team needed him the most. His understanding of situational football and his knack for finding space in the defense make him a valuable asset for NFL teams.
Another aspect of Golden’s game that has received praise is his ball tracking and hands. Golden is an excellent deep threat, often tracking down high throws with ease and coming down with catches that other receivers may struggle to complete. His ability to make contested catches and secure the ball in traffic is another feature that bodes well for his NFL prospects.
B. Areas for Improvement
While Golden’s physical traits and ability to make plays are widely regarded as elite, there are still areas in which he must improve to maximize his potential at the NFL level. One area that NFL scouts have highlighted is his consistency in route depth. At times, Golden’s routes can get a little sloppy when working against tight coverage, and this can limit his ability to separate from top-tier corners in the NFL.
Another area where Golden could improve is his blocking. NFL teams value wide receivers who can contribute in all facets of the game, and being able to block effectively in the run game is an important skill for any wideout. Golden has the physicality and willingness to contribute as a blocker, but his technique can be inconsistent, and this is an area where he can improve before entering the professional ranks.
Finally, Golden will need to prove that he can handle the physicality and speed of NFL cornerbacks. While he has shown the ability to dominate college competition, the jump to the NFL will come with tougher matchups every week. His ability to handle press coverage and consistently separate from more physical corners will be a crucial point of evaluation for scouts.
C. Projected Draft Position and Comparison to NFL Prospects
Given his talent and performance in 2024, Matthew Golden is projected to be a first- to second-round pick in the upcoming NFL Draft. While his stock is high, there are several other wide receivers in this draft class who are also garnering attention. Golden’s biggest competition for the top wide receiver spots includes players like Marvin Harrison Jr. (Ohio State) and Emeka Egbuka (Ohio State), who have also been dominant in their respective college systems.
However, what sets Golden apart from other top wide receiver prospects is his ability to affect the game in multiple ways. His versatility allows him to fit into a variety of offensive schemes, whether as a deep threat, a possession receiver, or a big-body target in the red zone. NFL teams are always looking for players who can contribute in different ways, and Golden’s ability to do so will likely make him an attractive option for teams in need of a dynamic wide receiver.
D. Long-Term NFL Outlook: A Player Who Could Be a Superstar
Looking beyond the draft, Golden’s future in the NFL appears bright. He has the physical tools to be a consistent contributor right away, and with the right development, he has the potential to become a star receiver in the NFL. Teams looking to add a wide receiver who can stretch the field, win contested catches, and provide a consistent target will undoubtedly value Golden highly.
The right fit for Golden in the NFL will be key to unlocking his full potential. He is the type of player who could thrive in a pass-heavy offense with an established quarterback, where he can take advantage of favorable matchups and showcase his skills in a vertical passing game. Teams that are looking to bolster their wide receiver corps with a big, athletic, and versatile playmaker will likely see Golden as an immediate contributor.
3. The Impact of Golden’s Decision to Declare for the Draft
Given his success at Texas and the recognition he has received this season, Matthew Golden has officially declared for the 2025 NFL Draft, opting to forgo his final year of college eligibility. This decision, while not unexpected given his rise in the draft rankings, is a significant milestone in his football career.
Golden’s decision to leave Texas early will likely lead to a great deal of anticipation leading up to the NFL Combine and subsequent draft evaluations. If he can demonstrate even more growth in his game through individual workouts and team meetings, his stock could continue to rise and make him a candidate for selection in the first round.
Golden’s time at Texas may be coming to an end, but his legacy as one of the most talented and dynamic wide receivers in the program’s history is firmly established. His potential to transition successfully into the NFL is immense, and many expect him to make an immediate impact at the next level.
4. Conclusion: Golden’s NFL Future Is Bright
Matthew Golden’s rise to prominence as one of the nation’s top wide receivers has set the stage for a successful NFL career. With his combination of size, speed, route-running ability, and versatility, Golden is projected to be a highly sought-after commodity in the 2025 NFL Draft. While there are areas of his game that still need refinement, his overall skill set and potential for growth make him one of the top prospects in his class.
As the draft approaches, NFL teams will undoubtedly be paying close attention to Golden’s workouts and interviews to determine where he fits into their offensive schemes. Whether he is selected in the first or second round, Golden has the potential to be a key contributor in the NFL, and with continued development, he could ultimately become a star in the league.
For Texas Longhorns fans, Matthew Golden’s decision to declare for the NFL Draft marks the end of an exciting chapter in the program’s recent history. As he moves on to the next stage of his career, there is no doubt that Golden’s impact on Texas football will be remembered for years to come. The future of Golden’s NFL career is promising, and fans will be eagerly watching his journey unfold at the next level.
