In a poll of NFL executives and scouts from ESPN's Jeremy Fowler, Green Bay Packers receiver Matthew Golden was predicted as the NFL's "breakout player" of the 2026 season.
Golden is entering Year 2 with a starting job intact, more opportunities coming his way and a big chance to emerge as a game-changing player for the Packers.
From one AFC executive: "I'm not really sure why they didn't use him, but I loved him coming out. He can fly."
Other receiving votes for breakout player included Chargers running back Omarion Hampton, Bears tight end Colston Loveland, Buccaneers defensive lineman Calijah Kancey and Giants edge rusher Abdul Carter.
Last season, Golden battled through various minor injuries and a role complicated by a deep receiver room in Green
Bay, finishing with 29 catches for 361 yards, and he didn't score his first pro touchdown until the NFC Wild Card Round in Chicago. Gone now are Romeo Doubs and Dontayvion Wicks, clearing the path for Golden to be a top contributor for Jordan Love and Matt LaFleur in 2026.
The big question: What would make Golden a true breakout player this season? Going over 1,000 receiving yards or catching 10 or more touchdowns would certainly qualify.
"All the opportunities I will get this year, I know I'll make the most of them."#Packers WR Matthew Golden feeling confident heading into Year 2. pic.twitter.com/CUgAeZSAzO
— Dominique Yates (@RealDYates) September 7, 2026
This article originally appeared on Packers Wire: NFL execs predict Packers WR Matthew Golden as breakout player of 2026
