Texas wide receiver Matthew Golden has aced the 2025 NFL pre-draft process. The Longhorns standout was downright electric at the NFL Combine. Golden ran a position-best 4.29-second 40-yard dash, the second-fastest overall result of any prospect in attendance. He also ran the fastest 10-yard split (1.49) among wideouts.
The No. 11 overall prospect in our latest Draft Network 100 update, Golden was dynamic for Texas this past season after transferring to the program from the Houston Cougars. Golden recorded 58 receptions for 987 receiving yards and nine touchdowns. He served as an explosive downfield weapon for starting quarterback Quinn Ewers.
Golden has established himself as a high-end first-round selection. The Texas performer should be drafted within the opening 20 selections. We've identified three teams that represent ideal fits for his services in the 2025 NFL Draft.
Dallas Cowboys
The Dallas Cowboys have been linked to acquiring wide receivers this offseason, including current free-agent veteran Cooper Kupp. Elsewhere, Missouri's Luther Burden III has been a popular mock draft target for the Cowboys. Should they go the rookie route at No. 12, Golden would represent a potentially shrewd alternative.
Quarterback Dak Prescott has CeeDee Lamb and not much else at the position. Jalen Tolbert is a high-end No. 3, and veteran Brandin Cooks is expected to sign elsewhere in free agency. Golden would positively impact Brian Schottenheimer's offense as a vertical threat. Dallas' cap situation requires them to draft long-term contributors. Golden would star in their offense for his entire rookie contract.
Los Angeles Chargers
Los Angeles Chargers offensive coordinator Greg Roman was overly reliant on the run game last season. Starting quarterback Justin Herbert oversaw an offense that attempted the fifth-fewest passes (510) in the league. Rookie wideout Ladd McConkey dominated from the slot in the passing game, and sophomore Quentin Johnston took steps forward as the boundary "X."
Golden would be an appropriate "Z" with downfield speed, aligning off the line of scrimmage. The Chargers signed Mike Williams and Najee Harris to support the offense in free agency. Harris may be the new backfield starter at running back, but the unforeseen reunion with Williams is nothing more than depth. Golden would add a different element to a Chargers offense that needs to further expand their playbook.
Los Angeles Rams
Los Angeles Rams head coach Sean McVay made the difficult decision to part ways with Kupp this offseason. His bloated cap charge was simply too much to stomach. Kupp's departure has left McVay's offense with Puka Nacua and not much else at receiver, though general manager Les Snead did re-sign Tutu Atwell to a one-year contract worth $10 million.
Demarcus Robinson also left in free agency. The Rams renegotiated their contract with starting quarterback Matthew Stafford earlier this offseason. Stafford was linked to a potential trade. Snead and McVay now need to ensure they surround him with pass-catching weapons. Losing Kupp obviously delivers a big blow to the offense. Golden's downfield ability would complement what Nacua does in the short to intermediate areas well.
