In a surprising turn of events, Matthew Golden, the Texas Longhorns’ leading wide receiver for the 2024 season, has announced his decision to forgo his remaining college eligibility and declare for the 2025 NFL Draft. This unexpected move has significant implications for both Golden’s burgeoning career and the Longhorns’ offensive strategy in the upcoming season.
Matthew Golden’s Journey to the NFL Draft
Golden’s path to this pivotal moment has been marked by determination and adaptability. A native of Houston, Texas, he began his collegiate career at the University of Houston. During his freshman year in 2022, Golden made an immediate impact, setting freshman records with seven touchdowns. After two seasons with the Cougars, he transferred to the University of Texas ahead of the 2024 season, seeking to elevate his game on a larger stage.
In his lone season with the Longhorns, Golden emerged as a cornerstone of the team’s offense. He led the team with 58 receptions, amassing 987 receiving yards and nine touchdowns over 16 games. His performance was instrumental in propelling Texas to the College Football Playoff (CFP) semifinals, where they faced a challenging defeat against Ohio State. Notably, Golden’s clutch 28-yard touchdown catch on a fourth-and-13 play during double overtime secured a victory against Arizona State in the Peach Bowl, underscoring his playmaking abilities under pressure.
Golden’s decision to enter the NFL Draft was influenced by his impressive postseason performances and the potential to capitalize on his elevated draft stock. Analysts have praised his route-running precision, explosive speed, and versatility in playing both slot and boundary positions. These attributes have positioned him as a potential Day 2 selection, with projections placing him in the second or third round of the upcoming draft.
Impact on the Texas Longhorns
Golden’s departure leaves a significant void in the Longhorns’ receiving corps. His chemistry with quarterback Quinn Ewers was a highlight of the 2024 season, providing a reliable target and contributing to the team’s offensive success. With Ewers also declaring for the NFL Draft, Texas faces the challenge of rebuilding its offensive lineup. The anticipated promotion of Arch Manning to the starting quarterback position adds a layer of complexity, as the team will need to develop new on-field relationships and dynamics.
The Longhorns’ coaching staff, led by head coach Steve Sarkisian, will need to identify and develop emerging talents to fill the gap left by Golden. Recruitment efforts and spring training sessions will be crucial in reshaping the team’s offensive strategy. The loss of key players like Golden and Ewers necessitates a focus on building cohesion among remaining and incoming players to maintain competitive performance in the upcoming season.
Golden’s NFL Prospects
As Golden transitions to professional football, his collegiate achievements have garnered attention from NFL scouts and analysts. His performance in high-stakes games, ability to execute under pressure, and consistent production make him a compelling prospect. Teams seeking to enhance their receiving corps with a dynamic and versatile player are likely to consider Golden in the early rounds of the draft.
Golden’s adaptability, demonstrated by his successful transfer and immediate impact at Texas, suggests a capacity to adjust to the professional level’s demands. His work ethic and on-field intelligence have been lauded by coaches and teammates alike, indicating a readiness to embrace the challenges of the NFL. As the draft approaches, Golden’s performance in combines and interviews will further shape his professional trajectory.
The Bigger Picture: Longhorns’ Future Without Golden
Matthew Golden’s departure is not just about the loss of a single player—it has broader implications for the Longhorns’ offensive identity and their chances in the upcoming season. His ability to stretch the field and make crucial plays was a defining element of Texas’ success in 2024. Now, without him, Texas will have to rethink its offensive schemes, adjust its play-calling, and develop new receiving threats.
Who Will Step Up in Golden’s Absence?
Texas has always been a powerhouse when it comes to recruiting elite talent, and while replacing Golden will not be easy, the team has some promising options.
-
Johntay Cook II – The sophomore wide receiver showed flashes of brilliance last season and is expected to take on a larger role. His speed and hands make him a strong candidate to become Texas’ next go-to receiver.
-
DeAndre Moore Jr. – Another young talent with high upside, Moore has the potential to develop into a dangerous deep threat if he can refine his route-running.
-
Incoming Freshmen – The Longhorns have a strong recruiting class, and some of their incoming receivers may get immediate playing time. Players like five-star recruit Ryan Wingo could have a chance to make an impact right away.
-
Transfers – Texas could also look to the transfer portal to bring in an experienced receiver who can contribute immediately. The coaching staff has been aggressive in using the portal in the past, and this situation may prompt them to find a veteran presence for the receiving corps.
Impact on Arch Manning and the Quarterback Room
One of the biggest questions surrounding Texas this offseason is the transition at quarterback. With Quinn Ewers leaving for the NFL, the Longhorns are expected to turn to Arch Manning, the highly touted prospect from the famous Manning family. However, losing a top target like Golden could complicate Manning’s development.
Manning, who spent the 2024 season as a backup, has the talent to succeed, but he will need reliable weapons around him. A young quarterback’s best friend is a dependable wide receiver, and Texas will have to ensure that Manning has strong chemistry with whoever steps into the WR1 role.
Additionally, there could be competition at the quarterback position. If Manning struggles in spring practices or early in the season, backup Maalik Murphy could push for playing time. The success of Texas’ offense will largely depend on how well their young quarterbacks adjust to new personnel.
Offensive Adjustments by Coach Steve Sarkisian
Head coach Steve Sarkisian has built a reputation as one of the best offensive minds in college football, but this will be one of his toughest challenges yet. Losing both a starting quarterback and a top wide receiver in the same offseason means he’ll have to tweak his scheme to maximize the strengths of his new personnel.
Some potential adjustments could include:
- A More Balanced Offense – Texas may lean more on the running game to take pressure off the passing attack. Running back CJ Baxter could see an increased workload.
- Quicker Passing Game – Without a dominant deep threat like Golden, Sarkisian might emphasize short and intermediate routes to keep the chains moving.
- More Two Tight End Sets – If Texas struggles to replace Golden with a wide receiver, they could use tight ends more frequently to create mismatches.
Long-Term Recruiting and Program Stability
While losing Golden hurts Texas in the short term, the Longhorns remain a top-tier program. Their move to the SEC in 2024 brought increased competition but also enhanced their recruiting power.
Golden’s early departure to the NFL could actually help Texas in recruiting. High school players often look at programs that develop NFL talent, and Golden’s success story could be used as a selling point for future wide receiver recruits.
Additionally, Texas has been aggressive in NIL (Name, Image, and Likeness) deals, which could help them attract top talent to replace Golden in the future.
Golden’s Path to the NFL: What Scouts Are Saying
Golden’s decision to leave early was unexpected, but analysts believe he made the right choice. While he may not be a first-round lock, his performance at Texas showed that he has the tools to succeed at the next level.
Some key strengths that scouts have highlighted:
- Explosive Speed – Golden can create separation downfield, which will be valuable in the NFL.
- Strong Hands – He rarely drops passes, making him a reliable target.
- Versatility – He can play both outside and in the slot, increasing his draft value.
Potential weaknesses:
- Size Concerns – At 6’0”, 190 pounds, some scouts question if he can consistently win against bigger NFL corners.
- Route Tree Expansion – While he’s a polished route-runner, some believe he could expand his skill set even more.
NFL comparisons for Golden have ranged from Brandin Cooks to Tyler Lockett—both undersized but highly effective receivers. If he lands in the right system, he could become a key contributor early in his pro career.