By Blessing 
Lions Eye Blazing Texas WR to Boost Goff’s Arsenal
The Detroit Lions have built a dynamic offense that’s already packed with talent, but there’s a chance they’re not done yet. As the NFL Draft approaches, they may be looking to add even more firepower—and one speedy wide receiver from Texas could be their next big move.
In a recent breakdown, Christian Booher of SI.com highlighted wide receivers the Lions might target in every round of the upcoming NFL Draft. One name stood out at the very top of his list: University of Texas standout Matthew Golden. Booher identified Golden as a potential first-round pick who could give Detroit an extra gear on offense.
A Game-Changer in the Making?
Booher believes Golden could land in Detroit with the No. 28 overall pick—though the receiver’s draft stock is climbing fast, especially after a standout performance at the NFL Combine.
“He is incredibly fast, as evidenced by his 4.29 40-yard dash in Indianapolis. Additionally, he has exceptional footwork and can run any route within the route tree and has solid hands,” Booher wrote.
That type of speed could be a huge asset for quarterback Jared Goff, who already benefits from a solid supporting cast that includes Pro Bowler Amon-Ra St. Brown and a strong backfield duo in David Montgomery and Jahmyr Gibbs. Golden’s explosiveness could open up even more options for Detroit’s offense, giving Goff another weapon to stretch the field.
College Production That Backs It Up
Golden isn’t just fast—he’s productive, too. In his final season with the Longhorns, he hauled in 58 catches for 987 yards and nine touchdowns, showing his ability to make plays and consistently contribute. Booher also pointed out that Golden brings more than just receiving skills to the table.
“With some return ability also at his disposal, Golden could contribute at the NFL level in a number of ways,” Booher noted. “If the Lions are looking to add another burner to their crop of wideouts, Golden is one of the best options available.”
A Draft Pick That Signals Flexibility
Thanks to three years of savvy roster building under general manager Brad Holmes, the Lions enter this year’s draft with very few glaring needs. While some analysts suggest Detroit could target a pass rusher to pair with Aidan Hutchinson, their well-rounded roster might allow them to take a more aggressive swing at adding a playmaker like Golden in the first round.
What About Jameson Williams?
Of course, Golden wouldn’t be the only speedster in town. The Lions already have Jameson Williams, a former first-round pick known for his blazing speed. But Williams’ future in Detroit isn’t set in stone just yet.
As Mark Inabinett of AL.com recently reported, Williams is entering the final season of his rookie contract. Detroit will soon have to decide how—or if—they want to keep him beyond 2025.
“Williams has one season remaining on his four-year, $17.462 million rookie contract. To keep Williams beyond the 2025 season, Detroit has three options available – a new contract before the current one ends, the franchise tag next offseason or its fifth-year option,” Inabinett wrote.
While Williams has shown glimpses of his potential, his time in Detroit has been marred by off-field issues, including suspensions for gambling and violating league performance-enhancing drug policies.
Bringing in Golden could give the Lions some flexibility. They’d be able to evaluate the rookie throughout the season and decide whether he’s capable of stepping into Williams’ role—should the team decide to move on.
For a team that’s already knocking on the door of a Super Bowl run, adding a player with Golden’s speed and versatility could be the final piece of a truly explosive offense.