Matthew Golden of Texas football is compared to a former Alabama standout.

The Texas Longhorns have long been known for their ability to develop elite talent at the wide receiver position. One of the latest players to emerge from their program is Matthew Golden, a dynamic playmaker whose skill set has drawn comparisons to former Alabama standout Jaylen Waddle. Golden’s speed, versatility, and ability to make game-changing plays have put him on the national radar as one of the most electrifying receivers in college football.

As Golden continues to make a name for himself at Texas, the similarities between him and Waddle become more apparent. From their explosiveness in open space to their ability to contribute as both receivers and return specialists, Golden and Waddle share many traits that make them special. This article will explore Golden’s journey, his impact on the Texas Longhorns, and why the comparison to Waddle is gaining traction.

Matthew Golden’s Path to Stardom

High School Dominance

Before becoming a key player for the Longhorns, Matthew Golden established himself as one of the top high school receivers in Texas. Playing at Klein Cain High School, he put up eye-popping numbers, recording 167 receptions for 3,242 yards and 32 touchdowns over his career. His ability to make defenders miss, stretch the field, and contribute in multiple facets of the game made him a highly sought-after recruit.

Originally, Golden committed to Texas Christian University (TCU) but later flipped his commitment to the University of Houston, where he felt he could make an immediate impact. This decision paid off as he quickly established himself as one of the most productive freshmen in the nation.

Breakout Years at Houston

Golden wasted no time making his presence felt at Houston. As a freshman in 2022, he recorded 38 receptions for 584 yards and seven touchdowns. One of his standout performances came against East Carolina, where he posted eight catches for 127 yards and two touchdowns, showcasing his ability to take over games.

His sophomore campaign further cemented his status as a rising star. In addition to being a reliable receiving target, Golden made a significant impact on special teams. In a game against TCU, he returned three kicks for 132 yards, including a touchdown, earning him Big 12 Conference Special Teams Player of the Week honors. His 99-yard kickoff return for a touchdown against West Virginia highlighted his explosiveness and playmaking ability.

By the end of his two seasons at Houston, Golden had amassed 76 receptions for 988 yards and 13 touchdowns while also contributing over 500 return yards. With his stock rising, he decided to transfer to Texas, where he could showcase his talents on a bigger stage.

Making an Impact at Texas

Golden’s transition to Texas in 2024 proved to be a seamless one. He quickly became a focal point of the Longhorns’ offense, leading the team with 58 receptions for 987 yards and nine touchdowns. His ability to stretch the field and create separation made him a nightmare for opposing defenses.

One of his most notable performances came against Oklahoma, where he racked up 175 receiving yards and two touchdowns in the Red River Rivalry, helping Texas secure a crucial win. His playmaking ability was on full display throughout the season, as he consistently made tough catches in traffic and turned short receptions into long gains.

Beyond his offensive production, Golden continued to be a dangerous weapon on special teams, contributing as a kickoff returner. His speed and vision allowed him to flip the field on multiple occasions, giving Texas excellent field position and adding another dimension to his game.

The Jaylen Waddle Comparison

Speed and Explosiveness

One of the most obvious similarities between Matthew Golden and Jaylen Waddle is their elite speed. Golden recorded a 4.29-second 40-yard dash at the 2025 NFL Scouting Combine, a time that puts him among the fastest receivers in recent memory. Waddle, known for his blazing speed at Alabama, displayed similar quickness that made him one of the most dangerous players in college football.

Both players possess the ability to take the top off a defense, making them threats to score every time they touch the ball. Whether it’s on deep routes, screens, or kick returns, their acceleration and agility allow them to break away from defenders with ease.

Versatility

Another key trait Golden and Waddle share is their versatility. At Alabama, Waddle was used as both an outside and slot receiver while also serving as a return specialist. Golden has followed a similar path, excelling in multiple roles for Texas. His ability to line up anywhere on the field and create mismatches makes him an invaluable asset to any offense.

Additionally, both players have demonstrated a knack for making defenders miss in open space. Their combination of quick footwork, elusiveness, and balance allows them to turn short gains into explosive plays. This makes them difficult to defend, as they can be effective in both short and deep passing situations.

Playmaking Ability in Key Moments

Great players shine in big moments, and both Golden and Waddle have shown a tendency to elevate their game when it matters most. Waddle had several game-changing plays at Alabama, including his famous punt return touchdown against LSU in 2019. Golden has displayed similar clutch performances, such as his 99-yard kickoff return touchdown against West Virginia and his dominant outing against Oklahoma.

Their ability to deliver in high-pressure situations makes them invaluable to their teams. Whether it’s a crucial third-down conversion, a long touchdown reception, or a momentum-shifting return, Golden and Waddle thrive when the stakes are highest.

NFL Draft Projections and Future Outlook

As Matthew Golden continues to develop, many NFL scouts see him as a top prospect for the 2025 NFL Draft. His elite speed, route-running ability, and versatility make him an attractive option for teams looking for a dynamic playmaker.

Several mock drafts have projected Golden as a first-round pick, with comparisons to Waddle only strengthening his case. His ability to impact the game in multiple ways—both as a receiver and return specialist—makes him a valuable commodity in today’s NFL, where speed and versatility are highly coveted.

Potential NFL Fits

Golden’s skill set makes him an ideal fit for teams that emphasize speed and explosive plays. Some potential landing spots include:

• Miami Dolphins – Pairing Golden with Waddle and Tyreek Hill would create one of the fastest receiving corps in NFL history.
• Kansas City Chiefs – With Patrick Mahomes at quarterback, Golden could thrive in an offense that prioritizes big plays.
• Baltimore Ravens – The Ravens could use Golden’s speed to complement their run-heavy attack and give Lamar Jackson another weapon.

Regardless of where he lands, Golden’s future looks bright. His ability to create mismatches, stretch the field, and contribute on special teams ensures that he will be a valuable asset at the next level.