Green Bay Packers fans didn’t immediately love Matthew Golden’s decision to take the No. 22 jersey, but his heartwarming reason quickly changed that.
The team initially gave Golden the No. 81 jersey, but he asked to switch to No. 22, which is an unusual choice for a wide receiver. In recent years, almost exclusively defensive backs and running backs have taken that jersey.
Golden met with reporters during the Packers’ rookie minicamp and explained why it meant so much to him.
“My grandma. Her favorite number was two, growing up, and she told me she wanted me to represent that number,” said Golden. “I knew the last receiver that was drafted (by the Packers in the first round) was 2002, so I felt like it kind of made sense to me.”
Golden wore the No. 2 jersey for Texas, but that number currently belongs to Packers quarterback Malik Willis. Golden said he didn’t ask Willis for No. 2 because “it’s just a jersey number.”
Matthew Golden’s reason for choosing the Packers’ No. 22 jersey makes it even more special
Golden has been nothing but impressive since arriving in Green Bay. It’s easy to see why the Packers loved his attitude and work ethic. He is the perfect fit in the locker room.
It’s not the first time Golden has highlighted his relationship with his grandmother. In an interview with FOX News, he revealed he intends to use his signing bonus to help buy his grandma’s house back, having lost the property.
That’s the type of person you want on your team.
Golden’s reason for the No. 22 jersey makes it even more special. It’s unusual for a receiver to wear that number, especially in Green Bay, but any negativity from the fans over the decision quickly disappears after hearing his explanation.
Packers fans loved Golden from the second the team drafted him, and he has spent the past week giving them even more reasons to root for him. We can’t wait to see his first touchdown in the No. 22 jersey.
