The Detroit Lions don’t have many glaring weaknesses heading into the 2025 NFL Draft, but if there’s one area they might subtly strengthen—it’s the wide receiver position. Sure, Amon-Ra St. Brown just inked a major deal, and Jameson Williams had a breakout season, but that doesn’t mean Brad Holmes should stay idle.

That’s where Matthew Golden enters the picture—the Texas receiver who might be an ideal fit for Detroit’s dynamic offense.

Golden made an impression this season after moving from Houston to Texas, racking up nearly 1,000 yards and flashing the kind of downfield threat that keeps defensive coaches awake at night.

And let’s talk about his wheels—Golden clocked a 4.29-second 40-yard dash at the NFL Combine, making him one of the speediest prospects in the draft. That type of elite acceleration would complement the Lions’ attack perfectly, especially with Jared Goff’s ability to connect deep when protected.

If you admire what Jameson Williams offers, you’ll probably appreciate Golden just as much. The difference? Golden might come without any of the extra concerns.

Here’s the reality—despite Williams’ huge step forward in 2024, his long-term place in Detroit isn’t locked in. He’s up for a fifth-year option, but negotiating a long-term extension could be difficult.

With St. Brown already earning $30 million annually, it’s hard to see Detroit committing top dollar to two receivers with big extensions looming for guys like Aidan Hutchinson, Jahmyr Gibbs, Kerby Joseph, and Brian Branch.

Picking Golden now gives the Lions some future-proofing. If Williams finishes his deal and departs, Golden can take over. If Williams is moved after the draft—which can’t be ruled out—Golden would be ready to contribute early.

But Golden’s more than just speed. He’s a crisp route-runner who thrives both inside and out. He has strong hands, precise footwork, and the explosive burst that can leave defenders chasing shadows.

Picture this: Amon-Ra lining up in the slot, Golden stretching defenses down one sideline, and Williams—or his eventual replacement—on the opposite side. That’s a scary trio for any defense to face.

And to top it off? Golden has shown he can contribute on special teams, giving him added value right away as a rookie.

This approach isn’t new for Holmes. He prioritizes traits like athleticism, high character, and upside—Golden checks every one of those boxes. Sitting at pick No. 28, Golden could be firmly on Detroit’s radar if the top defensive names are gone.

The team even brought Golden in for a top-30 visit—a strong sign they’re seriously evaluating his fit.

Detroit doesn’t have to grab a receiver in this draft. But they do have to plan ahead—and that’s exactly why Matthew Golden makes perfect sense.

With blazing speed, big-time production, and no off-field concerns, Golden looks like a perfect match for Detroit’s ascending offense. If the Lions want to stay aggressive during their Super Bowl push, adding Golden could be the smartest choice they make.