Matthew Golden

The Packers broke a long-standing trend by selecting Golden, their first receiver taken in the first round since Javon Walker in 2002. While his underlying metrics—yards per route run and YAC per reception—were middling, Golden brings legit 4.29 speed and a physical edge that Green Bay’s receiving corps has lacked. Matt Harmon of Reception Perception praised Golden’s ability in contested situations, calling him “truly special” and a “sneaky tough downfield wideout with good hands.” That gives him a potential path to fantasy relevance, even if his rookie-year volume is uncertain. Christian Watson is reportedly “ahead of schedule” in his return from an ACL injury, which could complicate Golden’s early-season role. Still, the Packers are clearly high on his skill set. While he may be a better real-life asset early on, Golden has the tools to emerge as a deep threat or contested catch specialist as the year wears on. Consider him a stash with WR4 upside and room to grow.