Packers release first unofficial depth chart, and it reveals a questionable reality that’s almost certain to change before Week 1

The Green Bay Packers have released their first unofficial depth chart of the 2025 season, and there are some interesting notes and considerations to make. More than anything, first-round rookie wide receiver Matthew Golden is listed as a backup, behind Jayden Reed. Dontayvion Wicks and Romeo Doubs are the other two starting receivers.Disclaimer: It’s important […]

Wendell Ferreira NFL News Writer
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Green Bay Packers wide receiver Matthew Golden (22) catches a pass during the first day of training camp on Wednesday, July 23, 2025, at Ray Nitschke Field in Ashwaubenon, Wis. Tork Mason/USA TODAY NETWORK-Wisconsin
Tork Mason / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images

The Green Bay Packers have released their first unofficial depth chart of the 2025 season, and there are some interesting notes and considerations to make. More than anything, first-round rookie wide receiver Matthew Golden is listed as a backup, behind Jayden Reed. Dontayvion Wicks and Romeo Doubs are the other two starting receivers.

Disclaimer: It’s important to note that these depth charts are considered “unofficial” even though they come from the team in its weekly release to media members. Why is that the case? These are assembled by the team’s PR staff, not directly from the coaching staff.

Reality vs. unofficial version

During the last two weeks, Matthew Golden has been a starter alongside Doubs, even in 12 and 21 personnel. However, Wicks has been out because of a calf injury. On Family Night, nobody played more wide out snaps than Golden with the ones.

This is relevant because the rookie has a real shot at starting from the get go, despite what the unofficial depth chart indicates.

More depth chart notes

The offensive line comes as expected. Rasheed Walker at left tackle, Aaron Banks at left guard, Elgton Jenkins at center, Sean Rhyan at right guard, and Zach Tom at right tackle. Last year’s first-round pick Jordan Morgan is listed as the backup left tackle, and rookie second-rounder Anthony Belton is the backup right tackle.

A backup last year even after the Preston Smith trade, former first-rounder Lukas Van Ness is now a starter over Kingsley Enagbare and opposite Rashan Gary. Devonte Wyatt is also finally a starter, alongside Kenny Clark on the interior of the defensive line.

Another detail diverging from practice is at off-ball linebacker. Isaiah McDuffie is listed as a starter, even though free agent addition Isaiah Simmons has practiced over him. Quay Walker and Edgerrin Cooper are the other two starting linebackers.

Unsurprisingly, Keisean Nixon and Nate Hobbs are the top cornerbacks, with Carrington Valentine listed as a backup. Javon Bullard, who in practicality is the starting nickel corner, is mentioned as a backup safety.

On special teams, Keisean Nixon is still listed as the kick returner and backup punt returner. Jayden Reed is the primary punt returner, while Mecole Hardman is the backup kick returner. Matthew Golden and Savion Williams are both listed as third-string returners.

Things will get clearer on Saturday, when the Packers open their preseason against the New York Jets. Starters are expected to play, which will give fans a better indication of how the real depth chart is shaking out.