Sara Diggins-USA Today Network via Imagn Images

Matthew Golden enters Packers OTAs with clear goal of building quick chemistry with Jordan Love on and off the field

Originally posted on A to Z Sports | By Wendell Ferreira | Last updated May 27, 2025 9:52 AM ET

If wide receivers can contribute right away nowadays, it's up to Matthew Golden and the Green Bay Packers to maximize the value of this year's first-round pick. On Tuesday, the Packers kick off their organized team activities (OTAs), and quarterback Jordan Love will have his first real chance to connect with Golden on the field.

Off the field, everything started with the right foot. Last week, the receiver participated in Love's charity softball game in Wisconsin, and both players are purposefully trying to build chemistry.

"It was a great time just to be able to get in front of the fans, first time showing my face in Green Bay. So it was definitely fun and exciting to be here," Golden said, via The Athletic. "You always gotta be there for your quarterback."

It's a challenge for Matthew Golden to have enough reps and build connection with his quarterback, because the Packers have many talented receivers on the roster. However, the rookie's value to the team is undeniable, and his ceiling makes the team particularly interested in making things work.

For Golden, entering his first offseason and then training camp with the Packers, there's a clear goal in mind.

"Just gain his trust, man," Golden added, about developing a relationship with Jordan Love. "That's from me just being able to put my best foot forward every day. Just go out there and create that chemistry with him."

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by NFL (@nfl)

Historically, the Packers took some time to develop wide receivers and see them have a big impact. But things are different nowadays. Over the past few years, the franchise has had solid rookie seasons from players like Marquez Valdes-Scantling, Christian Watson, Romeo Doubs, and Jayden Reed.

"I think the world has changed a little bit, it (used to take) receivers a little bit of time to get going, it used to be like that, and then in Year 2, or middle of Year 3 when things slowed down for them and they could really produce. We've had a lot of history with that," general manager Brian Gutekunst said after making the selection. "Because of high school football, the way they throw it around, seven-on-sevens, and some of the things that have changed at the lower levels, guys are coming in and making an impact quicker. I certainly think that Matthew has the opportunity to do that. Now, we've got some good players in that room, so he's not gonna have to carry the load that way, but I think he has a chance to contribute. Not only as a receiver, but he's got some special team, return ability as well that can help us."

The 23rd overall pick in this year's draft, Matthew Golden was the first wide receiver selected by the Packers in the first round since 2002, when the team took Javon Walker with the 20th overall pick.

This article first appeared on A to Z Sports and was syndicated with permission.

More must-reads: