GREEN BAY, Wis. — Matthew Golden, a second-year wide receiver for the Green Bay Packers, has a unique source of motivation that he keeps close to him: a photo of his late cousin, Makaylin, which he now places on his nightstand. This image serves as a daily reminder of his journey, one marked by both profound loss and resilience.
Golden was just a toddler when he and Makaylin, who shared the same birthday, participated in a family wedding, where he served as the ring bearer. Tragically, their lives took a heartbreaking turn when Makaylin was killed in a car accident at the age of six. The driver, who had multiple DWI convictions, was intoxicated, and the incident left an indelible mark on Golden’s life. As he grew older, the memories of their childhood together became intertwined with the pain of her absence.
Reflecting on this loss, Golden shared with Yahoo Sports, "I think about it every day. Especially during hard times when things do get rough." This sentiment illustrates how the memory of his cousin not only fuels his determination but also serves as a reminder of the fragility of life.
Golden’s hardships extend beyond the tragedy of losing Makaylin. He and his family faced significant challenges, including bouts of homelessness that began in 2017 when they lost their multigenerational home. His mother, Alicia Blackshear, worked tirelessly, often juggling multiple jobs to provide for the family. Despite their struggles, she instilled in Golden a sense of resilience, encouraging him to face adversity with strength. "Don’t let it break you," she advised him, a mantra that has guided him throughout his life.
As Golden prepares for his second season with the Packers, he is determined to rise above the disappointments of his rookie year, where he recorded 29 receptions for 361 yards but struggled with injuries and inconsistent playing time. With the departure of fellow receivers Romeo Doubs and Dontayvion Wicks, Golden is poised to take on a more significant role in the Packers' offense. Quarterback Jordan Love has expressed confidence in Golden's potential, stating, "I think he’ll be able to take over that position and have a big year."
Golden's journey through adversity has shaped his approach to football and life. He often recalls the difficult times his family endured, including nights spent in hotels and even in a car parked in a Walmart lot. These experiences taught him the value of perseverance and hard work. "If I can go through that, this is nothing," he remarked, emphasizing how his past struggles have prepared him for the pressures of professional football.
Now, as he trains in Green Bay, Golden wakes up each day in a stable home, a stark contrast to his earlier years of instability. He continues to write his goals on mirrors, including his lifelong dream of playing in the NFL. The Packers’ decision to draft him in the first round was a significant milestone, marking the first time in 23 years that the team selected a wide receiver in that position. This achievement is a testament to his talent and hard work, and he aims to honor his family's sacrifices by excelling on the field.
As Golden looks ahead to the upcoming NFL season, he carries with him not only the memory of his cousin but also the lessons learned from his family's struggles. His story serves as an inspiration to many, reminding them that resilience and determination can lead to success, no matter the obstacles faced.
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