Green Bay, October 13, 2025
Matthew Golden, the Green Bay Packers’ first-round wide receiver, made waves with a breakout 86-yard performance in the 27-18 win over the Cincinnati Bengals on October 12. Yet, his reaction to head coach Matt LaFleur’s game plan has stirred the pot among fans.
Golden, who tallied 3 catches on 5 targets in the victory, addressed LaFleur’s decision to avoid force-feeding him the ball. “I respect the way Packers build this team,” Golden said humbly. “I don’t need more targets—I just want to contribute to the Lambeau spirit. This organization is about unity, and I’m here to honor that legacy.”
The comments come after LaFleur emphasized his philosophy of even distribution, stating, “That’s not how we’ve done it around here” (via Zach Jacobson, 247Sports). Golden’s alignment with this approach contrasts with his 12/15 targets and 196 yards over the last three games, including a 46-yard career-high against the Cowboys.
Fan reactions on X were mixed. @PackersFaith tweeted, “Golden’s humility is noble, but we need him to shine as WR1!” Others questioned, “Is he too soft for a first-rounder?” With Jayden Reed on IR and Christian Watson limited, some see Golden’s stance as selfless, while others fear it stifles his growth.
LaFleur’s strategy leverages a deep WR corps, but Golden’s breakout (6 catches, 68 yards season-to-date) suggests untapped potential. His humility may reflect Packers’ team-first ethos, yet it risks alienating fans hungry for a star.
As the 2-1-1 Packers eye Week 7, Golden’s words could redefine his role—or spark a fiercer debate about LaFleur’s vision.
