Posted on Jan 12

Packers evaluating LaFleur's future after heartbreaking playoff loss to Bears

Posted Jan 12, 2026

The future of Packers head coach Matt LaFleur hangs in the balance following a disappointing playoff exit.

Why it matters: The outcome of LaFleur's upcoming meeting with team president Ed Policy could determine not only his fate but also the direction of the Green Bay Packers as they seek to regain their status as a Super Bowl contender.

The Packers have reached the playoffs in six of LaFleur’s seven seasons, yet the absence of a conference championship appearance since 2020 raises questions about the team's competitiveness.
Losing an 18-point lead in the NFC wild-card game against division rivals Chicago Bears has amplified scrutiny on LaFleur’s coaching decisions and overall effectiveness.

What’s new: LaFleur is under contract for one more season, but the pressure to avoid a "lame-duck" situation looms large.

Policy has indicated a preference for clarity regarding the head coach's future, which may influence the timing of any potential announcements.
LaFleur himself acknowledged the need for these discussions, noting, "Those conversations will be had in a very short period of time."

Yes, but: LaFleur’s impressive regular-season record of 76-40-1 raises complexities in the evaluation process.

While many coaches would envy such a win-loss ratio, the playoff performances serve as a stark reminder that success in the regular season does not always translate to postseason glory.
His acknowledgment of disappointment after last season’s playoff performance—“I’m as disappointed, obviously, as all you guys”—indicates awareness of the stakes involved.

What to watch: The search for a new defensive coordinator adds another layer to LaFleur's situation.

He has expressed confidence that Jeff Hafley, currently serving as the defensive backs coach, may secure a head coaching position elsewhere, further necessitating a recalibration of the coaching staff.
This transition could impact player development and overall scheme implementation heading into next season.

The big picture: The Packers decision-making process reflects broader trends in the NFL where teams often prioritize immediate results over long-term stability.

With LaFleur having led the team to multiple playoff appearances without advancing deep into the postseason, the organization must weigh the benefits of continuity against the desire for innovative leadership.
As they evaluate their options, the Packers find themselves at a crossroads, balancing the desire for consistent performance with the hunger for championship success.

The bottom line: The outcome of Matt LaFleur's impending discussions with the Packers’ front office will shape not only his future but also the trajectory of a franchise eager to reclaim its place among the league's elite.

As the team navigates these critical decisions, the implications for player recruitment and strategic direction hang in the balance, making this moment pivotal in the franchise's evolution.

Packers evaluating LaFleur's future after heartbreaking playoff loss to Bears

Alex Parker

Posted Jan 12, 2026

The future of Packers head coach Matt LaFleur hangs in the balance following a disappointing playoff exit.

The Packers have reached the playoffs in six of LaFleur’s seven seasons, yet the absence of a conference championship appearance since 2020 raises questions about the team's competitiveness.

Losing an 18-point lead in the NFC wild-card game against division rivals Chicago Bears has amplified scrutiny on LaFleur’s coaching decisions and overall effectiveness.

What’s new: LaFleur is under contract for one more season, but the pressure to avoid a "lame-duck" situation looms large.

Policy has indicated a preference for clarity regarding the head coach's future, which may influence the timing of any potential announcements.

LaFleur himself acknowledged the need for these discussions, noting, "Those conversations will be had in a very short period of time."

Yes, but: LaFleur’s impressive regular-season record of 76-40-1 raises complexities in the evaluation process.

While many coaches would envy such a win-loss ratio, the playoff performances serve as a stark reminder that success in the regular season does not always translate to postseason glory.

His acknowledgment of disappointment after last season’s playoff performance—“I’m as disappointed, obviously, as all you guys”—indicates awareness of the stakes involved.

What to watch: The search for a new defensive coordinator adds another layer to LaFleur's situation.

He has expressed confidence that Jeff Hafley, currently serving as the defensive backs coach, may secure a head coaching position elsewhere, further necessitating a recalibration of the coaching staff.

This transition could impact player development and overall scheme implementation heading into next season.

The big picture: The Packers decision-making process reflects broader trends in the NFL where teams often prioritize immediate results over long-term stability.

With LaFleur having led the team to multiple playoff appearances without advancing deep into the postseason, the organization must weigh the benefits of continuity against the desire for innovative leadership.

As they evaluate their options, the Packers find themselves at a crossroads, balancing the desire for consistent performance with the hunger for championship success.

As the team navigates these critical decisions, the implications for player recruitment and strategic direction hang in the balance, making this moment pivotal in the franchise's evolution.