The Green Bay Packers already have enough wide receiver injuries and didn't need to risk another. They smartly changed their mind on Matthew Golden's status for the second preseason game.
Golden was among the few Packers starters active for Saturday's game against the Indianapolis Colts, but Matt LaFleur must've had a change of heart, as the rookie has yet to feature in the contest. Given the state of the wide receiver room, it's 100 percent the correct call.
LaFleur learned the hard way that playing starters comes with risk. Jordan Love injured his thumb in last week's preseason opener and required surgery — fortunately, he should return to practice next week. Seemingly at the last minute, the Packers opted to avoid risking Golden in the second exhibition contest.
Packers smartly rethink their decision on Matthew Golden in preseason Week 2
With Jayden Reed, Romeo Doubs, Dontayvion Wicks, and Christian Watson already sidelined, the Packers didn't need to take any risks with Golden, who has already shown off his star potential in the preseason.
Golden is a rookie and will benefit from every snap he can get, but the risk-reward balance slanted too far toward the former in this game.
Almost none of the other Packers starters featured in this game. Love attempted some passes on the sideline but likely won't feature again in the preseason after undergoing thumb surgery. Most of the starting offensive line didn't play, unless Jordan Morgan wins the left tackle job ahead of Rasheed Walker.
It's far more beneficial for Golden to get reps on the practice field alongside the other starters, especially once Love returns. He already made it look easy against the Colts' cornerbacks during Thursday's joint practice.
The Packers need their full receiving corps (minus Watson, who almost certainly won't return before Week 4) healthy for the opener against the Detroit Lions.
A few extra preseason snaps would've given Golden more time to build timing and go against a starting defense, but the risk of injury is far too great. The Packers (eventually) made the right call.