Logo

BREAKING: First-Round Rookie Not Listed as Starter in Packers’ Initial Depth Chart

Matthew Golden hype train is officially leaving the station in Green Bay

 

Green Bay, WI – When the Green Bay Packers released their first depth chart for the 2025 season, the most talked-about topic among fans and analysts wasn’t the spot of Jordan Love, but rather the absence of highly-touted first-round rookie Matthew Golden from the starting wide receiver lineup. Instead, the experienced trio of Romeo Doubs, Dontayvion Wicks, and Jayden Reed—veterans from last season—retained their places as the starting receivers.

Many fans expressed surprise and even disappointment that the Packers’ new “gem” only appeared on the second string alongside Mecole Hardman and Malik Heath. Throughout the offseason, Golden repeatedly impressed in practice and film sessions, earning praise from both the media and veteran teammates.

However, according to head coach Matt LaFleur, this decision is by no means a sign of lacking faith in the talented rookie, but rather a show of respect for the experienced receivers who have contributed to the team through the challenges of last season.

“The fact that Matthew was selected in the first round says a lot about his talent and potential. We have great confidence in Matthew, and there’s a reason the Packers used a first-round pick on him. But for us, moving up the depth chart isn’t just about where you were drafted—it’s about experience, understanding the system, and the ability to contribute right away. Guys like Romeo, Dontayvion, and Jayden have been through a lot in the NFL, and they deserve the first shot. Matthew will have his time to prove himself, and I’m confident that with his attitude and ability, he’ll soon show everyone why he was a first-round pick for the Packers.”

Placing Matthew Golden on the second string doesn’t mean fans won’t see him on the field. With his speed, explosiveness after the catch, and star quality from his college days, Golden is expected to quickly climb the depth chart—especially if he shines in preseason and builds chemistry with Jordan Love.

Analysts note that the Packers need both the reliability of veteran receivers and the fresh spark Golden brings to add diversity and explosiveness to the offense, helping Jordan Love continue his journey toward becoming an elite quarterback.

For now, Golden will need to remain patient, keep learning from the veterans, and seize every opportunity—because in the NFL, one breakout performance can change everything overnight.

38 views
Ravens Fan-Favourite CB Faces Family Tragedy After Week 5 Game as Military-Trained Skydiving Instructor Dies in Nashville
Baltimore, MD – October 8, 2025Baltimore Ravens second-year cornerback Nate Wiggins is mourning a profound personal loss following the team’s Week 5 matchup, as his cousin, Justin “Spidey” Fuller — a respected military-trained skydiving instructor — died in a tragic tandem jump accident outside Nashville. Fuller, 35, was fatally injured after becoming separated from his harness mid-air during a jump organized by Go Skydive Nashville. His student survived after landing in a tree with the parachute deployed and was later rescued by firefighters. Police confirmed Fuller’s body was recovered in a wooded area off Ashland City Highway. The Nashville Fire Department called it “one of the most complex high-angle rescues in recent years,” commending personnel for their efforts. Known by the nickname “Spidey,” Fuller died after a tandem skydive went wrong on October 4, 2025, near Nashville, Tennessee. (Facebook/Justin Fuller Spidey) Beloved in the skydiving community, Spidey had completed more than 5,000 jumps and helped train U.S. service members in advanced aerial maneuvers. Friends described him as “fearless, focused and devoted to lifting others higher — in life and in the air.” Wiggins — whose mother is the younger sister of Fuller’s mother, grew up admiring his cousin’s discipline and sense of purpose. Family members say that influence helped shape his mental toughness and leadership on the field. A relative told local media, “Justin taught Nate that strength isn’t about being unbreakable — it’s about standing firm when life hits hardest. That’s exactly how Nate lives and plays today.” Wiggins, a former first-round pick from Clemson, has steadily earned the Ravens’ trust as a rotational cornerback in nickel/dime packages, praised for his speed, press technique, and ability to carry deep routes. Coaches describe him as “wise beyond his years,” calm under pressure, and disciplined at the catch point. Through the first five games of 2025, he has 12 solo tackles, 4 passes defensed, and 1 interception, reinforcing his value on the perimeter.  The Ravens organization has provided time and private support for Wiggins and his family, ensuring he can grieve without team-related obligations. Teammates have stood beside him, honoring both his resilience and his family’s tradition of service. The FAA is investigating the incident, while tributes to “Spidey” continue to pour in on social media from military colleagues, fellow skydivers, and fans across the country.“He taught others to fly — now he flies higher than all of us,” one tribute read. Wiggins kept his public comments brief, speaking softly before being embraced by teammates:“Spidey always told me not to fear the height — only the moment you forget to look down and pull someone else up with you. This week, I’m playing for him.”