Nick Saban's surprising comments about Packers' new WR suggest big things could be coming sooner than expected
Nick Saban has an eye for talent. And after so many years watching college players succeed and fail in the transition to the NFL, the former Alabama head coach has a lot of experience and a valuable perspective about what may or may not work in the pros.Analyzing the first round in an interview to […]
Nick Saban has an eye for talent. And after so many years watching college players succeed and fail in the transition to the NFL, the former Alabama head coach has a lot of experience and a valuable perspective about what may or may not work in the pros.
Analyzing the first round in an interview to SportsCenter on ESPN, Saban had high praise for the Green Bay Packers' decision to select wide receiver Matthew Golden with the 23rd overall pick. Not only does Saban expect a productive player, but he thinks it will happen fast.
"Matthew Golden going to the Green Bay Packers with Jordan Love needing a weapon," Saban said, "and the Packers being a good team, I think that was the most impactful pick for that team, in their position, to take the next step."
Golden, a 21-year-old receiver, played his first two college seasons at Houston and transferred to Texas last season, when he had 987 yards and nine touchdown receptions.
Just like Nick Saban, Packers general manager Brian Gutekunst also believes that Matthew Golden has the ability to generate immediate impact for the team.
In Gutekunst's vision, wide receivers enter the NFL much readier than it used to be. Packers receivers like Jordy Nelson and Davante Adams took years to be truly impactful pieces, but the game is just different now.
"I think the world has changed a little bit, it always (used to take) receivers a little bit of time to get going, it used to be like that, and then in Year 2, or middle of Year 3, when things slowed down for them and they could really produce," Gutekunst said after the selection. "We've had a lot of history with that. Because of the high school football, the way they throw it around, seven-on-sevens, and some of the things that have changed at the lower levels, guys are coming in and making an impact quicker."
Regarding Golden specifically, Gutekunst is confident that he can add special elements to the offense.
"I certainly think that Matthew has the opportunity to do that," the GM added. "Now, we've got some good players in that room, so he's not gonna have to carry the load that way, but I think he has a chance to contribute. Not only as a receiver, but he's got some special team, return ability as well that can help us."
It was the first time the Packers selected a first-round wide receiver since Javon Walker, in 2002.
What the Packers saw in Matthew Golden and how his speed and all-around skill set could add valuable elements to the offense
Texas wide receiver is a big-time weapon for Jordan Love
