The Washington Commanders had one of the best single-season turnarounds in recent NFL history. Thanks to an electric rookie quarterback, Jayden Daniels, they went from a four-win team to a berth in the NFC Championship Game.
No one anticipated that the Commanders would reach the NFC Championship Game, but now that they have, Washington’s front office should look to go all-in. As of now, Daniels’s top two weapons are wide receiver Terry McLaurin and veteran Deebo Samuel and Washington is now predicted to add an explosive playmaker in the 2025 NFL Draft.
Commanders Predicted To Select Matthew Golden in 2025 NFL Draft
The Washington Commanders made it a clear priority this offseason to ensure Daniels had a wealth of options. They brought back Zach Ertz and Noah Brown while adding Samuel in a blockbuster trade.
However, Golden is the most well-rounded receiver prospect in this class, and if he is available at No. 29, Washington wouldn’t think twice before selecting him. PFSN’s latest three-round mock draft by Justin Lewis predicts a similar scenario.
“The Commanders cannot pass up on Matthew Golden if he is still sitting there at No. 29. Jayden Daniels needs someone to take the top off the defense so that newly acquired Deebo Samuel and star Terry McLaurin have room to work underneath.
“Golden ran a 4.29-second 40-yard dash at the NFL Scouting Combine, and he’d complement the Commanders’ other weapons really well.”
Golden started his career at Houston, contributing early with 38 receptions for 584 yards. He also set the Cougars’ true freshman record for receiving touchdowns with seven while finishing second in the nation among freshman receivers in TD receptions.
As a sophomore, Golden started nine games but missed three due to injury. He finished the season with 404 yards and six touchdowns on 38 receptions. He was also recognized as a second-team All-Big-12 kick returner.
GET DRAFTING: Free NFL Mock Draft Simulator With Trades
Heading into his junior season, Golden entered the transfer portal and went to Texas, where he exploded for 987 yards, 58 receptions, and nine touchdowns. He was a key contributor to Texas’ late-season run in the College Football Playoff, particularly against Arizona State, where he dominated with 149 yards, seven receptions, and one touchdown.
He is the most well-rounded receiver prospect in the 2025 NFL Draft class, and while he’s not an elite athlete in a singular category, he’s balanced enough to be a productive receiver in the NFL. Golden’s ability to create consistent separation with speed and quick feet makes him a reliable target for Daniels and the Commanders.