Golden’s stock has surged dramatically.
The Green Bay Packers’ offense suffered a significant blow when Josh Jacobs was placed on the commissioner’s exempt list. However, league executives believe the team possesses a budding star at wide receiver ready to explode onto the scene.
“I’m not entirely sure why he wasn’t utilized more, but I loved watching him come out of the gates,” an AFC executive told ESPN. “He can really fly.”
Green Bay cleared the path for Golden to become a major contributor this season by releasing Romeo Doubs to the Patriots and trading Dontayvion Wicks to the Eagles.
Typically a run-first offense, the Packers may need to rely more heavily on their passing game with Jacobs expected to be out. Quarterback Jordan Love could look to Christian Watson, Jayden Reed, and Golden in three-receiver formations.
“I believe this situation will create more opportunity for everyone in that room—or rather, our three main guys—and they need to be out there for as many plays as possible,” coach Matt LaFleur told reporters on Wednesday. “We know that all three of those players are difference makers, and we need them on the field for as many snaps as we can get.”
Golden was a standout at the 2025 combine, running a 4.29 40-yard dash—the fastest among all receivers. He was selected with the No. 23 overall pick in the first round.
Golden appeared in 14 games, starting five, while buried behind other receivers, recording 29 catches for 361 yards.
The University of Texas product showed glimpses of a breakout during the playoffs, tallying four catches for 84 yards and a touchdown in a loss to the Bears.
