Jordan Love Comments on Rising Rookie 'The Next James Lofton'

Green Bay, WI – June 20, 2025

Green Bay Packers quarterback Jordan Love has seen plenty of talent, but rookie Matthew Golden, dubbed “the next James Lofton” by fans, has left him in awe. On the Exciting Mics podcast with Christian Watson and Jayden Reed, Love hailed the 2025 first-round pick as a rare gem.

“Matthew’s got it all—speed, hands, route-running,” Love said, per Packers.com. “He’s a sponge, picking up plays fast, and his playmaking is unreal. I’ve never seen a rookie like this.” Golden, selected 23rd overall from Texas, shone at Mandatory Minicamp with his explosive routes.

The Packers’ offense, which ranked 12th with 351.2 yards per game in 2024, is reloading after Jaire Alexander’s release, per NFL.com. Golden’s arrival bolsters a unit led by Love’s 3,814 passing yards and Super Bowl hopes.

Golden, a 6’2”, 190-pound wideout, racked up 1,000 yards and 8 touchdowns in his final Texas season, earning first-team All-Big 12 honors, per ESPN. His minicamp highlight—a 60-yard TD catch—drew Lofton comparisons, per Packers Wire.

Love, who signed a four-year, $120 million extension in 2024, mentors Golden alongside Reed and Watson, per Spotrac. “He’s eager, asks questions constantly,” Love noted. “With LaFleur’s scheme, he’ll be special.” Matt LaFleur’s system fits Golden’s versatility, per Green Bay Press-Gazette.

The Packers’ 2024 playoff run fuels their 2025 drive, backed by $22 million in cap space and young talent, per Spotrac. Golden’s early dominance positions him as a future star, per Bleacher Report. Fans are buzzing, embracing the “next Lofton” label. “Love’s hyping Golden? We’re loaded!” one wrote, per Packers Talk. Golden’s speed evokes Lofton’s legendary flair, stirring Cheeseheads’ excitement.

As the Packers gear up for their opener, Golden’s rise could redefine their offense. Will this rookie live up to Love’s praise and Lofton’s legacy? Stay tuned to ESPN!