The Green Bay Packers made waves during the 2025 NFL Draft, and no one was more surprised—or excited—than quarterback Jordan Love. For the first time since 2002, the Packers selected a wide receiver in the first round, signaling a clear commitment to bolstering their offense and giving Love the tools he needs to succeed. In a recent interview, Love expressed his excitement about the team’s draft strategy, which included two wide receivers in the first three picks.
The Green Bay Packers’ decision to draft Texas wide receiver Matthew Golden at No. 23 overall was a historic moment for the franchise. For years, Green Bay had avoided using high draft capital on wideouts, instead relying on later-round picks and free agency to fill the position. But after a 2024 season marred by inconsistency and dropped passes, the front office knew it was time for a change.
Golden, who ran a blistering 4.29-second 40-yard dash at the NFL Combine, brings elite speed and playmaking ability to the Packers’ offense. In his final season at Texas, he led the Longhorns with 987 receiving yards and nine touchdowns, averaging 16.4 yards per catch. His ability to stretch the field and create explosive plays makes him a perfect fit for head coach Matt LaFleur’s system.
“I was definitely surprised,” Love said during training camp. “Going into that first round, having the draft here in Green Bay, and hearing for the first time since 2002 we’re getting a receiver—it was exciting. Getting Matthew Golden, then Savion [Williams], those are two guys that I think are going to add some dynamic weapons to our passing game. We’ve got a lot of weapons.”
The Green Bay Packers didn’t stop with Golden. In the third round, they selected TCU’s Savion Williams, a 6-foot-5 receiver with a unique skill set. Williams caught 60 passes for 611 yards and six touchdowns last season, while also rushing for 322 yards and six additional scores. His versatility and size make him a valuable asset, particularly in the red zone.
Williams’s ability to line up in multiple positions gives LaFleur plenty of options for creative play design. Whether he’s running routes, taking handoffs, or blocking downfield, Williams is the kind of player who can make an impact in a variety of ways.
The additions of Golden and Williams come at a crucial time for the Green Bay Packers. The team’s wide receiver group struggled with consistency in 2024, recording 33 drops—tied for third-most in the NFL. While young players like Jayden Reed, Romeo Doubs, and Dontayvion Wicks showed flashes of potential, the unit lacked a true game-changer. Christian Watson’s torn ACL further complicated matters, leaving the Packers in desperate need of reinforcements.
Golden and Williams bring a new level of talent and versatility to the group. Golden’s speed and route-running ability make him a deep threat who can stretch defenses, while Williams’ size and physicality provide a reliable target in contested situations. Together, they give Love the kind of dynamic weapons he needs to take the next step in his development.
For Jordan Love, the Packers’ draft strategy is a clear sign that the organization believes in him as their franchise quarterback. After spending years in Aaron Rodgers’ shadow, Love is finally getting the opportunity to lead the team—and the front office is doing everything it can to set him up for success.
“It’s exciting to see the pieces coming together,” Love said. “We’ve got a lot of young talent, and I think we’re building something special here. It’s just about putting in the work and making it all come together on the field.”
The Packers’ 2025 draft class represents a bold new direction for the team. By investing in offensive playmakers like Golden and Williams, Green Bay is giving Jordan Love the tools he needs to thrive. With a revamped receiving corps and a quarterback eager to prove himself, the Packers are poised to make noise in the NFC this season. As Love put it, “We’ve got a lot of weapons”—and the rest of the league should take notice.
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