Heading into the 2024 NFL Scouting Combine, wide receiver Matthew Golden was already on the radar of several NFL teams, but after his impressive showing in Indianapolis, his draft stock is officially on the rise. The former Houston Cougars standout delivered one of the more complete performances among receivers, showcasing the speed, athleticism, and refined route-running ability that scouts were hoping to see. With the NFL Draft quickly approaching, Golden has positioned himself as one of the top risers at his position.
Golden’s Combine performance was highlighted by his 40-yard dash time, where he clocked in at an unofficial 4.39 seconds. For a receiver listed at 6’0″ and 200 pounds, that kind of speed is exactly what teams covet. Beyond just straight-line speed, Golden also impressed in the vertical jump with a leap of 38 inches and posted strong numbers in the three-cone drill, proving his agility and quickness in space. These results confirmed what many saw on tape: Golden is an explosive athlete with the ability to make plays at every level of the field.
Scouts and analysts also came away impressed with Golden during on-field drills. His crisp route running stood out during positional work, and he showed reliable hands throughout the session. Golden’s ability to create separation and adjust to the ball in the air has been a key part of his game since his college days, and it translated well in front of NFL evaluators.
After a productive collegiate career at Houston, where Golden totaled over 1,400 receiving yards and 14 touchdowns across two seasons, his potential as a versatile offensive weapon was clear. But the Combine gave him the platform to prove that he can physically match up with some of the best prospects in this year’s draft class. Golden’s versatility as both an outside receiver and a dynamic option in the slot adds to his value, and his experience as a kick returner only boosts his appeal to teams looking for immediate contributors.
Since the Combine, Golden has been generating buzz as a potential Day 2 pick. Prior to his workouts in Indianapolis, most projections had him slated as a late third-rounder or early fourth-round selection. Now, with his athletic testing numbers and strong on-field performance, he’s being mentioned in the conversation to crack the second round.
As the NFL Draft nears, Golden still has his Pro Day to further solidify his status, but if the momentum from the Combine carries forward, don’t be surprised if Matthew Golden hears his name called earlier than expected. In a deep wide receiver class, separating yourself is no easy task, but Golden’s combination of speed, skill, and consistency has made him one of the biggest risers heading into April.
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