When former Texas Longhorns WR Matthew Golden was drafted by the Green Bay Packers in the first round of the 2025 NFL Draft, the Houston native said his first major purchase after signing his first NFL contract would be to buy his grandmother a new house. Golden has made good on that promise.
Golden’s family lost the house a few years ago. He was very clear what he was going to do with his money.
“Definitely get my grandma a house, man,” Golden told reporters during draft week. “We lost our property a couple of years ago. That’s somewhere I grew up when I was younger. It’d be a blessing to be able to get that back for my family. That’s where they all grew up, that’s where I grew up. I always told myself I wanted to do that and now I’m in the position to do it, so if it’s bound to happen, I’m gonna make it happen for sure.”
His grandmother’s original home wasn’t a viable purchasing option, so Golden found something better. Golden found a three-bedroom, two-bathroom house to purchase in Kohrville, Texas, only miles from where Golden grew up.
“My grandmother has done so much for me, and I’m humbled to be able to give back to her in this way,” Golden said in a press release from his relator company REMAX. “While we weren’t able to purchase our family home, we’ve found a house in an area that’s also meaningful to me. Home is where my family is and I’m excited for us to enjoy many meals, holidays and football watch parties together.”
Golden, 21, was selected with the 23rd overall pick, making him the first wide receiver drafted in the first round by the Packers since 2002. His journey to the NFL included standout seasons at both Houston and Texas, capped by a senior year in which he caught 58 passes for 987 yards and nine touchdowns, tying for the most touchdown receptions in the SEC.
“Being able to buy this dream house means everything to me,” Golden said. “I can’t describe this feeling. It might be a little bit better than getting drafted. This is a big milestone for me.”
Golden’s story has resonated with Packers fans, many of whom have celebrated the team’s decision to draft a player who brings both talent and heart to Green Bay. As he prepares for his NFL debut, Golden’s first major purchase will bring his family back home.
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This article originally appeared on Longhorns Wire: Former Longhorns WR uses first NFL contract to buy his grandmother a new home
Reporting by Trey Luerssen, Longhorns Wire / Longhorns Wire
USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
