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Green Bay Packers sign surprising low contract with Matthew Golden

Green Bay, WI – May 18, 2025

The Green Bay Packers have finalized a contract with their first-round pick, wide receiver Matthew Golden, but the deal is notably lower than expected for the No. 22 overall selection, sources confirmed to ESPN. The former standout from Houston signed a four-year, $13 million contract with a $6 million signing bonus, falling short of Spotrac’s projection of $16 million over four years with an $8 million signing bonus.

The contract, which includes a fifth-year option, carries a 2025 cap hit of just $2.8 million, providing significant financial flexibility for the Packers. This modest deal aligns with the team’s recent strategy of securing cost-effective contracts, similar to veteran deals like that of cornerback Jaire Alexander.

“We’re excited to bring Matthew on board at this value,” said Packers GM Brian Gutekunst. “It allows us to build around our core while adding a dynamic playmaker.”

The lower-than-anticipated contract may stem from concerns about Golden’s physical profile and experience. Listed at 5-foot-11 and 185 pounds, Golden has a lean frame that some scouts believe may struggle against physical NFL cornerbacks. Additionally, his limited exposure to elite competition in college has raised questions about his readiness for the pro level.

Despite these concerns, Golden brings elite skills to Green Bay. His performance at the NFL Rookie Premiere showcased exceptional hand-eye coordination, acing the flag reaction test and reinforcing his reputation for reliable hands. With 1,234 receiving yards and 12 touchdowns in his final college season, Golden is seen as a potential solution to the Packers’ ongoing issue with dropped passes, which plagued the team in 2024.

The Packers’ passing attack, led by MVP candidate Jordan Love’s 4,012 yards in 2024, desperately needs a spark after ranking 18th in receiving yards last season. Golden joins a young receiving corps featuring Jayden Reed and the injured Christian Watson, aiming to elevate the offense against NFC powerhouses like the San Francisco 49ers and Philadelphia Eagles.

“I’m not here for the contract numbers,” Golden told reporters. “I’m here to catch passes for Jordan Love and help bring a Super Bowl back to Green Bay.”

Golden’s cost-effective deal gives Gutekunst room to pursue additional talent, potentially targeting a veteran linebacker or offensive lineman before the 2025 season. His speed and route-running ability could prove pivotal in high-stakes matchups, particularly against divisional rivals like the Detroit Lions.

While some fans remain divided over Golden’s No. 22 jersey—a number historically associated with cornerbacks or running backs—his talent and determination are undeniable. As he steps into the NFL spotlight, Golden has the chance to make Packers fans forget the contract chatter and focus on the touchdowns he’s poised to score.

Tre'von Moehrig Lavishes Praise on the One Who Replaced Him in His Absence
Can you believe it? A veteran star of the Carolina Panthers, Tre'von Moehrig, was suspended for a notorious "punch below the belt," but instead of being jealous, he's showering praise on his "replacement"! What's going on with this team? Read now for the "hot off the press" details from Week 13! The Carolina Panthers just caused an earthquake by defeating the Los Angeles Rams in Week 13, despite missing a slew of key players. Under the "wizardry" of head coach Dave Canales, the team showcased incredible resilience. But the real spotlight belongs to Tre'von Moehrig – the Panthers' top safety, who's sidelined due to a suspension after punching wide receiver Jauan Jennings from the San Francisco 49ers below the belt. Yet, instead of sulking, Moehrig watched from home and... "went wild" over the performance of the rookie who stepped in for him! That's none other than Lathan Ransom, the young gun selected in the 4th round of the draft, who "stole" Moehrig's spot and turned it into his own stage. Ransom not only led the team with 11 tackles but also made his mark with a "top-notch" sack! Moehrig, with his wealth of experience, couldn't hide his excitement: "Man, I was hype (for Lathan Ransom's sack). I could see it all as the play was happening. I was like, Oh, there you go. I could see it all the way. So I was happy for him to get his first sack. He had a great game, and I'm just excited. Sky's the limit for him." (Translation: "Oh man, I was so hyped (for Lathan Ransom's sack). I could see everything as the play unfolded. I was like, Oh, there you go. I saw it all the way. So I was happy for him to get his first sack. He had a great game, and I'm just excited. The sky's the limit for him." This "sweet as honey" praise from Moehrig not only affirms Ransom's talent but also raises the question: Is this "replacement" threatening the starting positions of Moehrig and Nick Scott – the current starting safety duo? Panthers fans have been "whispering" about this for a while, after witnessing Ransom shine in summer practices and his flashy cameo appearances. With this impressive performance, Ransom is sure to get more opportunities, especially as the Panthers are "heating up" in the race for the NFC South championship! At 23 years old, Ransom is seen as a "rough diamond" with explosive potential, thanks to the Panthers' sharp personnel strategy. And Moehrig? This guy was signed as a "bargain" from the free agent market, and his leadership and positive attitude have completely transformed the team's defense in just his first season. That influence is spreading strongly to Ransom – the kid who shares many similarities and is gradually "transforming" into a future star. But that's not all – the lesson from Moehrig is accelerating the "youth revolution" at the Panthers! With this public praise, Moehrig isn't just acknowledging Ransom's growth but also igniting ambition for the entire team. Will the Panthers continue to "soar high" with this new generation? Don't miss out – follow now for the next drama in the NFL!