Posted on Jan 11

Packers lose to Bears 31-27 in wild-card playoff; LaFleur's future uncertain

Posted Jan 11, 2026

The Green Bay Packers face pivotal decisions after a disappointing playoff exit against the Chicago Bears, raising questions about their future leadership and direction.

Why it matters: The outcome of the NFC wild-card playoff game, in which the Packers squandered an 18-point lead to lose 31-27, has significant implications for both coaching stability and player performance moving forward.

Head coach Matt LaFleur, who holds a commendable record of 76-40-1, must now navigate the pressures of maintaining his role amidst declining team performance.
The Packers’ management, including General Manager Brian Gutekunst, is under scrutiny as they approach critical contract discussions and future strategies.

What’s new: Following the playoff loss, LaFleur expressed deep concern for his players but did not confirm his job security for next season.

"With all due respect to your question, now's not the time for that," LaFleur stated, emphasizing his focus on the team's current emotional state rather than his future.
Jordan Love, the quarterback who stepped into a leadership role this season, publicly supported LaFleur, stating, "I definitely think Matt should be the head coach."

Yes, but: Despite LaFleur's impressive tenure, the Packers finished the season with a 9-3-1 record but failed to secure a win in their final five games.

This late-season collapse culminated in poor defensive performances, particularly in the playoff game where they allowed 25 points in the fourth quarter—an almost unprecedented feat in playoff history.
Micah Parsons season-ending injury exacerbated these issues, as the defense's average points allowed per game rose significantly in the last four contests.

What to watch: The Packers special teams issues also played a crucial role in their downfall.

Kicker Brandon McManus missed an extra point and a field goal during the decisive moments of the playoff game, reflecting broader concerns about execution under pressure.
Special teams have been problematic throughout the season, highlighting areas needing immediate improvement.

The bottom line: The Packers organizational future hinges on addressing both coaching staff dynamics and player performance inconsistencies.

As LaFleur indicated, "It's going to take a lot of work," underscoring the challenges ahead as the team looks to rebuild confidence and performance standards.
With players like Evan Williams expressing faith in LaFleur's leadership, the coming weeks will be crucial in determining whether the franchise can rebound or if a new direction is necessary.

In summary, the offseason will be a critical period for the Packers, shaping their strategy and identity as they seek to return to playoff contention amid swirling uncertainty.

Packers lose to Bears 31-27 in wild-card playoff; LaFleur's future uncertain

Alex Parker

Posted Jan 11, 2026

The Green Bay Packers face pivotal decisions after a disappointing playoff exit against the Chicago Bears, raising questions about their future leadership and direction.

Head coach Matt LaFleur, who holds a commendable record of 76-40-1, must now navigate the pressures of maintaining his role amidst declining team performance.

The Packers’ management, including General Manager Brian Gutekunst, is under scrutiny as they approach critical contract discussions and future strategies.

What’s new: Following the playoff loss, LaFleur expressed deep concern for his players but did not confirm his job security for next season.

"With all due respect to your question, now's not the time for that," LaFleur stated, emphasizing his focus on the team's current emotional state rather than his future.

Jordan Love, the quarterback who stepped into a leadership role this season, publicly supported LaFleur, stating, "I definitely think Matt should be the head coach."

Yes, but: Despite LaFleur's impressive tenure, the Packers finished the season with a 9-3-1 record but failed to secure a win in their final five games.

This late-season collapse culminated in poor defensive performances, particularly in the playoff game where they allowed 25 points in the fourth quarter—an almost unprecedented feat in playoff history.

Micah Parsons season-ending injury exacerbated these issues, as the defense's average points allowed per game rose significantly in the last four contests.

What to watch: The Packers special teams issues also played a crucial role in their downfall.

Kicker Brandon McManus missed an extra point and a field goal during the decisive moments of the playoff game, reflecting broader concerns about execution under pressure.

Special teams have been problematic throughout the season, highlighting areas needing immediate improvement.

The bottom line: The Packers organizational future hinges on addressing both coaching staff dynamics and player performance inconsistencies.

As LaFleur indicated, "It's going to take a lot of work," underscoring the challenges ahead as the team looks to rebuild confidence and performance standards.

With players like Evan Williams expressing faith in LaFleur's leadership, the coming weeks will be crucial in determining whether the franchise can rebound or if a new direction is necessary.

In summary, the offseason will be a critical period for the Packers, shaping their strategy and identity as they seek to return to playoff contention amid swirling uncertainty.