Mar 1, 2025; Indianapolis, IN, USA; Texas wideout Matthew Golden (WO16) during the 2025 NFL Combine at Lucas Oil Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-Imagn Images
Matthew Golden, a wide receiver from the University of Texas, made headlines at the 2025 NFL Scouting Combine by clocking an official 4.29-second 40-yard dash, the fastest time among all wide receivers. This performance not only showcased his elite speed but also significantly boosted his draft stock, positioning him as a potential first-round pick in the upcoming NFL Draft.
Prior to the Combine, Golden was considered a late first-round to early second-round prospect. However, his exceptional speed and overall athleticism have propelled him into the conversation for the first wide receiver selected in the draft. Former NFL general manager Mike Tannenbaum expressed confidence in Golden’s abilities, stating, “There’s no doubt” that Golden will be the first wide receiver taken in the 2025 NFL Draft due to his speed and route-running ability.
Golden’s journey to this point has been marked by perseverance and growth. After transferring from the University of Houston to Texas, he quickly became a standout player. In his sole season with the Longhorns, he recorded 58 receptions for 987 yards and nine touchdowns, averaging 17 yards per catch. His performance on the field was complemented by his exceptional route-running skills and ability to make contested catches, making him a versatile threat in the passing game.
Beyond his physical attributes, Golden’s mental acuity and work ethic have been praised by coaches and analysts alike. An NFL coach noted that Golden is “razor-sharp getting in and out of his cuts” and “plays a lot bigger than his size,” further emphasizing his status as the best route runner in the 2025 draft class.
Golden’s impressive Combine performance and subsequent rise in draft projections have made him a focal point for NFL teams in need of a dynamic wide receiver. His blend of speed, agility, and football intelligence positions him as a potential game-changer at the next level. As the draft approaches, all eyes will be on Matthew Golden to see where his talents will take him in the professional ranks.
