The NFL offseason has brought new fuel to one of football’s fiercest rivalries — and this time, it’s the coaches at the center. In his January introductory press conference, newly appointed Chicago Bears head coach Ben Johnson didn’t hesitate to take a dig at division rival Green Bay Packers and their head coach, Matt LaFleur.
“And to be quite frank with ya, I kind of enjoyed beating Matt LaFleur twice a year,” Johnson said, referencing his tenure as offensive coordinator with the Detroit Lions, where he saw notable success against Green Bay.
Johnson’s comment immediately caught attention, signaling a potentially spicy new era in the Packers-Bears rivalry. Despite Green Bay having dominated Chicago in recent years—winning 11 of their last 13 encounters—Johnson’s words suggested the tide might be turning.
Yet Matt LaFleur isn’t biting—at least not publicly. In a recent appearance on the Bussin’ With the Boys podcast, LaFleur coolly brushed off the topic with a hint of dry humor.
“I don’t know Ben Johnson,” LaFleur remarked. “Do I have beef? I don’t know Ben Johnson. I respect him as a football coach, he did a nice job [with the Lions]… I thought it was interesting. The press conference was interesting, but I don’t have beef with him… I don’t get all into that stuff.”
Though LaFleur’s words were measured, his demeanor reportedly told a different story—one of mild irritation or at least weariness from being peppered with questions about a coach he claims not to even know personally.
As the Bears look to rebuild under Johnson and with No. 1 draft pick Caleb Williams under center, Chicago may finally claw its way out of NFC North irrelevance. If so, the historical Packers-Bears feud could ignite into a full-blown coaching clash.
Until their first sideline face-off in 2025, the football world will be watching and waiting. Should Green Bay come out on top in that meeting, LaFleur may finally let his own words do the talking.
