After two seasons for Houston and another for Texas, junior wide receiver Matthew Golden declared for the NFL draft on Tuesday.
“My ultimate dream has always been to announce that I will DECLARE FOR THE 2025 NFL DRAFT,” Golden said in his message. “And I feel the timing couldn’t be any better than right now for me to take that next step.”
The breakout season started in the eighth game of the year where Golden took his first snaps as the starting receiver for the Texas offense as fellow wide receiver Isaiah Bond was out with an ankle injury. He hauled in a touchdown in a 27-24 win against then No. 25 Vanderbilt and since that game, Golden grabbed 56 catches for 655 yards and five touchdowns.
Golden’s most notable performance of the year arguably happened during the College Football Playoff quarterfinal game against No. 4 Arizona State. Golden had seven grabs for 149 yards and a touchdown, with the six points coming off the first overtime fourth-and-goal on the 13-yard line play that inevitably saved Texas’ season.
In his three-year career, Golden hauled in 134 catches across 36 games for 1,975 yards and 22 touchdowns.
Golden is currently projected to be taken in the third round, 69th overall, to the New England Patriots, according to Tankathan.com. Tankathon also has Golden as the 9th best receiver in his draft class.
With his impressive late-season surge and a solid career résumé, Golden has positioned himself as a promising NFL prospect. His standout performances have not only showcased his talent but also cemented his status as one of the most intriguing receivers in this year’s draft class.
“What I have learned is that you choose, every single day, to believe in yourself, stay the course and have faith that God will never lead you astray, dreams will become a reality when the perfect timing presents itself,” Golden said.
Reflecting on his journey and the opportunity to chase his professional dreams, Golden concluded his message with words that all Texas fans have merely witnessed.
“This whole experience has been… Golden,” Golden said.