Packers News: Matt LaFleur Responds to Ben Johnson’s Offseason Jab – “I Don’t Even Know Him”
By Rolly Gacelo
February 25, 2025 – Indianapolis, IN – Newly hired Chicago Bears head coach Ben Johnson made headlines early in his tenure by taking a subtle jab at a division rival – Green Bay Packers head coach Matt LaFleur.
Johnson, 38, officially took over the Bears on January 21 after serving as offensive coordinator for the Detroit Lions, a team that had become a thorn in the Packers’ side the last two seasons. During his introductory press conference, Johnson didn’t shy away from stirring the pot.
“I’ll be honest,” Johnson said. “I kind of enjoyed beating Matt LaFleur twice a year.”
That comment was a clear nod to his time in Detroit, where the Lions swept the Packers last season. However, the previous year, the two teams split their meetings 1-1, and Green Bay had the edge in 2020.
LaFleur, when first asked about Johnson’s remark earlier this month, downplayed it, suggesting it was likely just a move to energize Bears fans. But when the topic resurfaced in a recent interview, LaFleur kept his cool.
“Do I have a problem with him? I don’t even know Ben Johnson,” LaFleur said. “I respect him as a coach. He did a great job in Detroit. His press conference was…interesting. But no, I don’t have beef. That’s not my thing.”
When asked whether Johnson’s comments would serve as motivation, LaFleur quipped, “I don’t have his number, so no, that won’t be happening.”
LaFleur’s comments suggest he’s not interested in turning this into a public rivalry. Still, with Johnson now leading the Bears, fans can expect some added heat to one of the NFL’s oldest rivalries
