Green Bay Packers sign surprising low contract with Matthew Golden

Green Bay, WI – May 18, 2025

The Green Bay Packers have finalized a contract with their first-round pick, wide receiver Matthew Golden, but the deal is notably lower than expected for the No. 22 overall selection, sources confirmed to ESPN. The former standout from Houston signed a four-year, $13 million contract with a $6 million signing bonus, falling short of Spotrac’s projection of $16 million over four years with an $8 million signing bonus.

The contract, which includes a fifth-year option, carries a 2025 cap hit of just $2.8 million, providing significant financial flexibility for the Packers. This modest deal aligns with the team’s recent strategy of securing cost-effective contracts, similar to veteran deals like that of cornerback Jaire Alexander.

“We’re excited to bring Matthew on board at this value,” said Packers GM Brian Gutekunst. “It allows us to build around our core while adding a dynamic playmaker.”

The lower-than-anticipated contract may stem from concerns about Golden’s physical profile and experience. Listed at 5-foot-11 and 185 pounds, Golden has a lean frame that some scouts believe may struggle against physical NFL cornerbacks. Additionally, his limited exposure to elite competition in college has raised questions about his readiness for the pro level.

Despite these concerns, Golden brings elite skills to Green Bay. His performance at the NFL Rookie Premiere showcased exceptional hand-eye coordination, acing the flag reaction test and reinforcing his reputation for reliable hands. With 1,234 receiving yards and 12 touchdowns in his final college season, Golden is seen as a potential solution to the Packers’ ongoing issue with dropped passes, which plagued the team in 2024.

The Packers’ passing attack, led by MVP candidate Jordan Love’s 4,012 yards in 2024, desperately needs a spark after ranking 18th in receiving yards last season. Golden joins a young receiving corps featuring Jayden Reed and the injured Christian Watson, aiming to elevate the offense against NFC powerhouses like the San Francisco 49ers and Philadelphia Eagles.

“I’m not here for the contract numbers,” Golden told reporters. “I’m here to catch passes for Jordan Love and help bring a Super Bowl back to Green Bay.”

Golden’s cost-effective deal gives Gutekunst room to pursue additional talent, potentially targeting a veteran linebacker or offensive lineman before the 2025 season. His speed and route-running ability could prove pivotal in high-stakes matchups, particularly against divisional rivals like the Detroit Lions.

While some fans remain divided over Golden’s No. 22 jersey—a number historically associated with cornerbacks or running backs—his talent and determination are undeniable. As he steps into the NFL spotlight, Golden has the chance to make Packers fans forget the contract chatter and focus on the touchdowns he’s poised to score.