As the 2025 NFL Draft approaches, the Detroit Lions are evaluating potential additions to their wide receiver corps, with standout Texas Longhorns wideout Matthew Golden emerging as a key prospect.
Golden, a transfer from the University of Houston, turned heads in 2024 with a breakout season, recording 58 receptions for 987 yards and nine touchdowns, averaging an impressive 17 yards per catch. His blazing 4.29-second 40-yard dash time at the NFL Combine only strengthened his case as one of the top deep-threat receivers in the draft class.
The Lions’ interest in Golden has led to speculation about the future of current wide receiver Jameson Williams. Williams, a former first-round pick himself, finally delivered on his potential in 2024, finishing the season with 58 catches for 1,001 yards and seven touchdowns.
However, his early career has been marked by injuries and off-field concerns, including a suspension for violating the NFL’s performance-enhancing substance policy. While Williams’ performance last season suggests he’s finding his rhythm, Detroit’s front office may still be looking for additional stability and depth at the position.
Sources close to the organization suggest that drafting Golden does not necessarily mean Williams is on the trading block, but rather that the Lions are planning for the long term. They are expected to pick up Williams’ fifth-year option, keeping him under contract through the 2026 season. That said, with Golden’s elite speed and production, he could provide both immediate impact and insurance if Williams fails to maintain consistency or struggles with further off-field issues.
Adding Golden could also allow the Lions to diversify their offensive schemes. With Amon-Ra St. Brown locked in as a reliable possession receiver and tight end Sam LaPorta emerging as a top red zone threat, the addition of another vertical weapon would give quarterback Jared Goff a full arsenal of playmakers.
Ultimately, while the Lions’ interest in Matthew Golden has sparked conversations about Jameson Williams’ future, there’s no indication yet of an imminent replacement.
The move seems to be more about bolstering the wide receiver room than making a dramatic change. Still, if Detroit pulls the trigger on Golden during the draft, Williams will undoubtedly feel the pressure to prove that he’s the long-term solution the Lions originally envisioned when they drafted him.
