Draft Rumors Heat Up: Lions, Texans, Broncos Among Teams Hosting Key Prospects
With the NFL Draft just days away, teams across the league are finishing up their “Top 30” visits, and several prospects have been making the rounds. One name drawing late buzz is wide receiver Matthew Golden, whose 4.29-second 40-yard dash at the Combine caught the attention of evaluators. Golden has already met with the Broncos, Bucs, Cowboys, and Packers—and now he’s added the Lions, Chargers, and Texans to his list. Though he didn’t post a 1,000-yard season in college, Golden’s athletic profile has him in the conversation as a potential late Day 1 pick.
Golden isn’t the only prospect gaining traction. Kentucky cornerback Maxwell Hairston, who posted a Combine-best 4.28-second 40, has met with the Lions, Commanders, Raiders, and Broncos. He’s viewed as one of the top pure corners in the draft and could come off the board early on Day 2.
The Broncos, who have been linked to offensive skill talent at No. 20, are also doing their homework on defense. They hosted Texas A&M defensive tackle Walter Nolen, a move that makes sense with two key D-linemen entering contract years.
Houston has also been active, speaking via Zoom with Ohio State receiver Emeka Egbuka. Despite an injury-limited 2023, Egbuka remains one of the safer WR picks thanks to his consistent production and ability to thrive in the slot. He’s also met with the Cowboys and Packers.
At tight end, Michigan’s Colston Loveland is expected to be taken somewhere between picks 10 and 22. A key piece of the Wolverines’ national title run, Loveland holds the school’s single-season record for catches by a tight end and continues to impress in interviews. If Tyler Warren is off the board early, Loveland could be a hot commodity.
Meanwhile, LSU’s Mason Taylor—the younger brother of Hall of Famer Jason Taylor—has visited the Browns, Saints, and Seahawks. With 55 catches last season, Taylor is making a strong case as the third tight end off the board in a deep class.
Finally, the Panthers recently wrapped up a visit with UCLA linebacker Carson Schwesinger, who also met with the Raiders. He’s a name to watch in the later rounds.
The rumors are flying—and with just one week to go, the draft boards are still far from settled.
Lions, Browns, Seahawks Among Teams Stirring Draft-Day Speculation
