NFL insider drops training camp nugget that proves exactly why the Packers drafted Matthew Golden and how quickly he’s turning heads
The Green Bay Packers made an unusual investment for the franchise, taking a wide receiver in the first round of the draft for the first time since 2002. However, in their perception, Matthew Golden is a special talent, justifying the decision to select him so early.So far in training camp, the returns have reinforced that […]
The Green Bay Packers made an unusual investment for the franchise, taking a wide receiver in the first round of the draft for the first time since 2002. However, in their perception, Matthew Golden is a special talent, justifying the decision to select him so early.
So far in training camp, the returns have reinforced that evaluation. ESPN’s NFL insider Jeremy Fowler visited Packers camp and shared some promising updates about the rookie wide receiver.
“People inside the Packers aren’t quiet about their impressions of first-round receiver Matthew Golden, who has looked the part thus far. Two things that have stood out: His hands (he’s not a body-catcher) and his determination to be great. One person with the team pointed out that he hadn’t dropped a pass through the first week-plus of camp, and he connected on a 60-yard deep ball in 11-man earlier in the week. Golden is part of a deep receiver room that will create tough roster decisions. ‘It’s a very competitive room right now,’ LaFleur said. Players on the fringe, such as Mecole Hardman and Malik Heath, are performing well.”
The Packers tend to be cautious with rookies sometimes, allowing a slower transition from college to the NFL. But it doesn’t seem to be the case with Golden. After he practiced with the twos most of the time during the offseason program, the rookie has been a starter throughout training camp, even when the offense uses 12 personnel—Golden plays at wideout opposite Romeo Doubs.
On Family Night last Saturday, Golden led the team in snaps as a wideout. And this is a big part of how the Packers see him. While Jayden Reed is basically a slot-only player, Golden has more alignment versatility despite his size.
Injury update
The Packers’ wide receiver room will also get a big help during the regular season, when fourth-year player Christian Watson returns from his ACL injury. Jeremy Fowler reported that Watson has impressed with his movement skills while getting back, even though “Green Bay will be cautious and give him the early part of the season to get his leg strength back.” He’s expected to start the regular season on the physically unable to perform list, which forces him to miss the first four games. It’s a particularly important season for Watson because it’s the last year of his rookie deal, and he’s slated to hit free agency next March.
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