Matthew Golden Set to Depart Texas Longhorns in Shocking Move: What It Means for the Star WR and the Team

A Stunning Decision That Shakes Up Texas Football

In a surprising turn of events, Texas Longhorns’ wide receiver Matthew Golden has officially announced his decision to leave the program, shaking up the college football landscape. Golden, who was expected to play a major role in Texas’ offense in the upcoming season, will now be looking for new opportunities, either in the NFL Draft or through another path. His departure leaves a significant hole in the Longhorns’ receiving corps and raises questions about the team’s offensive strategy moving forward.

The news of Golden’s departure comes just weeks after the Longhorns’ run in the College Football Playoff (CFP) came to an end. While rumors had been swirling about players declaring for the NFL Draft, Golden’s decision was unexpected given his rapid rise and impact in Texas’ offense.

Golden’s Rise to Stardom: A Quick Look at His College Career

Matthew Golden’s journey in college football has been nothing short of remarkable. The talented wideout began his collegiate career at the University of Houston (UH), where he quickly made a name for himself as one of the most explosive playmakers in the American Athletic Conference.

• As a freshman at Houston in 2022, Golden caught 38 passes for 584 yards and seven touchdowns, setting a school record for freshmen.
• In 2023, he built upon that success, improving his route-running, hands, and explosiveness, finishing the season with 38 receptions, 404 yards, and five touchdowns.
• Following Houston’s transition to the Big 12 Conference, Golden opted to transfer to Texas in 2024, where he hoped to shine on a bigger stage.

The move to Texas Longhorns proved to be a game-changer for Golden. Playing under head coach Steve Sarkisian, he quickly became one of the team’s primary offensive weapons.

A Breakout Season in Texas

Golden wasted no time making an impact in Austin, establishing himself as a go-to target for quarterback Quinn Ewers.

Key Stats from Golden’s 2024 Season at Texas:

• 58 receptions
• 987 receiving yards
• 9 touchdowns
• 17.0 yards per catch

His standout performances included a 149-yard, one-touchdown effort in the Peach Bowl against Arizona State, where he played a key role in helping Texas win in double overtime.

Golden’s ability to make plays in clutch moments and stretch the field with his speed made him one of the most feared wideouts in the Big 12. His chemistry with Quinn Ewers was undeniable, making Texas’ passing attack one of the most potent in college football.

Why Is Golden Leaving Texas?

Golden’s decision to leave raises several questions. While he has not publicly confirmed whether he will enter the 2025 NFL Draft or explore another collegiate option through the transfer portal, speculation suggests that his strong performance in 2024 has drawn interest from NFL scouts.

Possible Reasons for His Departure:

1. Declaring for the NFL Draft: Many analysts believe Golden is NFL-ready, with his speed, route-running, and ability to make contested catches making him an intriguing Day 2 (Rounds 2-3) prospect. If he has received strong feedback from scouts, declaring early would be a logical move.
2. Coaching Changes or System Fit: College football is always evolving, and sometimes, changes in coaching staff or offensive schemes can influence a player’s decision to leave.
3. Seeking a Bigger Role Elsewhere: While he was a key piece of Texas’ offense, Golden was competing with other star receivers. If he wants to maximize his draft stock, he could explore opportunities where he is the unquestioned No. 1 option.

Regardless of the reason, Golden’s departure leaves Texas with a major hole at wide receiver.

Impact on Texas Longhorns’ Offense

Golden’s departure is a significant loss for the Longhorns offense, especially with key playmakers like Xavier Worthy and Adonai Mitchell also expected to leave for the NFL Draft.

How Texas Will Replace Golden’s Production:

• Isaiah Bond, Johntay Cook II, and DeAndre Moore Jr. will need to step up.
• The Longhorns may look to the transfer portal to add another experienced receiver.
• Quinn Ewers’ decision to stay or leave will play a major role in Texas’ offensive outlook.

Texas’ coaching staff will need to adjust quickly to ensure the team remains competitive in the Big 12.

What’s Next for Golden?

If Golden declares for the NFL Draft, he will immediately become one of the most intriguing wide receiver prospects.

Strengths That Make Golden an NFL Prospect:

✔️ Elite Speed & Deep Threat Ability – Can stretch the field and beat defenders over the top.
✔️ Strong Hands & Route-Running – Can make contested catches and create separation.
✔️ Versatility – Can line up both outside and in the slot.

Many scouts believe he could be a Day 2 (Rounds 2-3) pick but could boost his stock further with strong performances at the NFL Combine and Pro Day.

Conclusion: A Shocking Move That Changes the Longhorns’ Future

Matthew Golden’s decision to leave Texas Longhorns is a major shakeup for the team and college football. Whether he declares for the NFL Draft or finds a new collegiate home, his departure will be felt in Austin.

As Texas looks to reload and regroup, all eyes will be on who steps up to replace Golden’s production in 2025. Meanwhile, Golden is set to embark on the next chapter of his football journey—one that could lead him to the NFL sooner than expected.