The NFL Scouting Combine is where draft stocks rise and fall, and Matthew Golden just made a statement that could have teams scrambling to reevaluate their wide receiver rankings. The former Houston Cougars standout posted the fastest 40-yard dash time among all wide receivers, solidifying his reputation as one of the most explosive playmakers in this year’s draft class.
Speed is always a premium trait at the NFL level, and Golden’s blazing 40 time will undoubtedly catch the attention of scouts, general managers, and coaches looking to add a dynamic weapon to their offense. With his combination of speed, agility, and playmaking ability, Golden may have just locked himself into early-round draft conversations.
Matthew Golden’s Record-Setting 40-Yard Dash
Heading into the Combine, there was plenty of speculation about which wide receiver would emerge as the fastest in this year’s class. While players like Xavier Worthy (Texas) and Malik Nabers (LSU) were seen as potential candidates, it was Golden who stole the show, clocking a lightning-fast 40-yard dash time that led all receivers.
While official times are still being analyzed, early reports suggest that Golden ran in the 4.2-second range, an elite time that puts him in the upper echelon of NFL speedsters.
A time in this range would not only place Golden among the fastest players in this year’s Combine but also among the fastest receivers in recent history. Comparisons will inevitably be drawn to past speedsters like Tyreek Hill, John Ross (who holds the record at 4.22 seconds), and DJ Chark—all of whom saw their draft stock skyrocket thanks to their elite straight-line speed.
How Golden’s Speed Translates to the NFL
Speed is one of the most coveted attributes in the NFL, especially in today’s pass-heavy league where stretching the field is essential. A player like Golden, who can outrun defenders and turn short passes into long gains, has the potential to be an instant impact player at the next level.
Here’s how his speed will translate in the NFL:
- Deep Threat Potential – Golden’s ability to take the top off defenses will force safeties to play deeper, creating more space underneath for quarterbacks to exploit.
- Yards After Catch (YAC) Ability – Speed isn’t just about deep routes—Golden can turn quick screens, slants, and crossing routes into explosive plays.
- Special Teams Impact – Many elite speedsters start their careers as return specialists, and Golden’s speed makes him a dangerous threat in kickoff and punt return situations.
- Mismatch Nightmare – Defenses will need to commit extra attention to Golden, which could open up opportunities for teammates and make an offense more dynamic overall.
What This Means for Golden’s Draft Stock
Before the Combine, Matthew Golden was projected as a mid-to-late-round pick, with most analysts viewing him as a Day 2 or Day 3 selection. However, after his eye-opening performance in the 40-yard dash, that could change dramatically.
NFL teams put a premium on speed, and a blazing 40 time can lead to a significant boost in draft position. History has shown that elite Combine performances—particularly in speed-based drills—can push a player into first- or second-round consideration.
Teams that could be particularly interested in Golden’s skill set include:
- Kansas City Chiefs – Always in search of game-changing speed, especially after losing Tyreek Hill in recent years.
- Miami Dolphins – Could add even more speed alongside Tyreek Hill and Jaylen Waddle.
- Green Bay Packers – Looking for a deep threat to pair with Jordan Love.
- Buffalo Bills – A potential successor to Gabe Davis, adding another weapon for Josh Allen.
- Atlanta Falcons – Could use a deep threat to complement Drake London and Kyle Pitts.
Final Thoughts
Matthew Golden’s performance at the NFL Combine has officially put him on the map. Leading all wide receivers in the 40-yard dash proves that he possesses elite-level speed, and now NFL scouts will be taking an even closer look at what he can offer beyond just straight-line explosiveness.
With his athleticism, route-running ability, and potential as a deep threat, Golden has positioned himself as one of the most intriguing WR prospects in the 2025 NFL Draft. While speed alone doesn’t guarantee NFL success, it certainly helps—and Golden just proved he has it in abundance.
Now, the question is: Which team will take the chance on one of the fastest players in the draft? With the NFL being a league built on speed and explosive plays, expect Matthew Golden’s name to be called earlier than expected come draft day.