Two Packers Players Detroit Lions Have to Worry About

The Detroit Lions have a tough test right off the bat in the 2025 regular season.

On Sunday, the team will travel to Lambeau Field to take on the Green Bay Packers for their season opener. Both teams have high aspirations, and each features offensive weapons that could torment their respective defenses.

Ahead of Sunday's game, here are two players that the Lions could struggle to stop in Week 1.

Matthew Golden

Green Bay selected Golden in the first round of this year's draft, and initial impressions of the rookie have been strong.

There's no secret that Golden could impact the game with his speed, as evidenced by his sub-4.3 40-yard dash at the NFL Scouting Combine. Lions defensive coordinator Kelvin Sheppard is aware of the threat that the young wideout presents.

“Yeah, it’s crazy how this unfolded because I actually did look at him. Dan (Campbell) had me evaluate a handful of offensive guys this offseason during the Draft process, and he was one of the guys on the list," Sheppard said. "It’s a unique thing we do here, and just another part of coaching development.

“Just expanding your horizon beyond your position, beyond your side of the ball, wherever that may deem he thinks you can get ready for. So, he fell on my list, so I’ve seen him as a player. He’s a very electric player."

Golden, a Texas product, was with the Longhorns alongside current Lions' running backs coach Tashard Choice, who coached that team's running backs last season. Detroit is certainly preparing for the wideout to play a big role in Sunday's game.

"We’ve got (Lions Running Backs Coach Tashard Choice) T-Choice here that came from Texas that was with him there, and I mean, it’s a no-brainer," said Sheppard. "He’s one of the fastest guys in the League. I believe he was the fastest guy this year coming out, and he’s a very explosive player. He’s a big component of their offense, I already know that without seeing a clip because of the dynamic he provides."