Logo

Packers’ Most Expensive Rookie Shows Up Late – Coach LaFleur Reportedly Furious

Packers GM shares insight on Matthew Golden that highlights exactly why  he's poised to make an early impact - A to Z Sports

Green Bay, August 2025 – As training camp ramps up on Titletown’s Ray Nitschke Field, Monday’s walkthrough ignited more heat than any on-field drill.

Matthew Golden, the Packers’ first-round pick (23rd overall) and highest-paid rookie this year, signed a four-year, $17,575,338 fully guaranteed contract—including a $9,422,064 signing bonus. Yet he reportedly strolled into a key morning meeting late, prompting Head Coach Matt LaFleur to unleash a public rebuke:

“You’re the most expensive rookie, and your talent is also rated the highest — but your sense of discipline isn’t worth a dime. If you’re late one more time, you won’t have any chance to show your talent. I need commitment more than talent.”

Veterans like Jaire Alexander and Za’Darius Smith watched in stunned silence as LaFleur’s words echoed through the locker room. According to team sources, this marked Golden’s second tardy since camp opened.

“Money can buy you a contract, but it can’t buy accountability,” a defensive assistant noted. “In Green Bay, everyone earns their stripes—no exceptions.”

Now the question looms: Can Golden shake off this rocky start, or will early lapses in discipline overshadow his elite potential?

 

 

Chiefs Locker Room Erupts, Chris Jones Under Investigation for NFL Sports Betting in Jaguars Game - HC Andy Reid Hands Down Harsh Punishment
Kansas City, MO – The Kansas City Chiefs' locker room is in turmoil following an NFL investigation into defensive star Chris Jones over allegations related to sports betting. Jones, a multiple-time Pro Bowler, has been placed on non-disciplinary paid leave through Week 10, while head coach (HC) Andy Reid has imposed internal penalties after a suspicious performance in the loss to the Jacksonville Jaguars. SOURCE: https://x.com/TheNFLDrop/status/1975574483990909165 The incident stems from a decisive play at the end of the game, where Jones – the Chiefs' top defensive tackle – appeared to "do absolutely nothing" to stop quarterback Trevor Lawrence from scoring the game-winning touchdown. According to sources, this lack of effort prompted the NFL to launch an investigation, suspecting possible involvement in betting, a serious violation of league rules. "He just stood there watching Lawrence run into the end zone like he was watching a movie," an anonymous teammate shared, reflecting the outrage in the locker room. Jones, 31, has been a cornerstone for the Chiefs since being selected in the second round of the 2016 NFL Draft from Mississippi State. With an impressive career including 3 Pro Bowls, 2 Super Bowl wins, and 75.5 sacks, he signed a 5-year, $158 million contract in 2023. However, this season, Jones has only recorded 2 sacks through 5 games, and his performance against the Jaguars has drawn sharp criticism from Chiefs fans on social media. HC Andy Reid reacted strongly, penalizing Jones by sidelining him from practices and requiring an internal explanation. "We do not tolerate any behavior that harms the team or undermines the integrity of the game," Reid stated post-game. "Our organization prides itself on discipline and trust, and while we await the results of the NFL's investigation, we'll handle this internally to ensure it doesn't distract from our goals. Chris is a talented player, but no one is above the standards we set here in Kansas City." Meanwhile, the Chiefs' locker room is described as "explosive" with arguments, as some players like Patrick Mahomes express disappointment but still offer support for their teammate. The NFL investigation is expected to continue, and if violations are proven, Jones could face a long-term suspension. The Chiefs, currently at 2-3, must quickly stabilize their roster ahead of their next matchup. Fans are watching closely, with many calling this potentially the "biggest scandal of the season."