It isn't a secret that there is no love lost between Chicago Bears head coach Ben Johnson and Green Bay Packers HC Matt LaFleur. Much was made of the quick handshake following Saturday's win over the Packers, and Johnson acknowledged that the Bears took notice of Green Bay's comments coming into the game.
As great as advancing to the NFC Division Round is, the Bears' postseason victory got even better on Monday. ESPN's Adam Schefter is reporting that not only is LaFleur expected to return after Green Bay's playoff collapse, but the Packers are looking to work out an extension for the underwhelming head coach.
This is another win for the Bears, who just went 2-1 against LaFleur between the 2025 regular season and playoffs. No postseason team from the NFC since the Atlanta Falcons in their infamous 28-3 Super Bowl meltdown has surrendered such a huge lead in the playoffs, and no one would be surprised if LaFleur was given his walking players.
Now, Johnson has a chance to continue his favorite pastime into 2026 and beyond.
Packers Bringing Matt LaFleur Back Is Another Win for Bears
No question, the Packers' implosion was an epic coaching failure, and the fact that they're anxious to bring LaFleur back despite this failure is great news for the Bears. LaFleur had many chances to regain control of this game and came up small in each moment, lacking answers for the most obvious decisions.
As great a coach as LaFleur might have previously been against Chicago, the Bears now own an incredible advantage. Even if the Packers jump out to a huge lead, all the opposing sideline and announcers will reference is the previous collapse. No lead is going to feel safe, and Chicago will feel empowered that they have a mental edge over a franchise that has dominated the rivalry in recent seasons.
Now, not only does Johnson have a clear grudge against the Packers, but he is equipped with an incredible mental edge. While the wild-card win was obviously far more important, this is the cherry on top for what was a perfect weekend for Bears fans. With that said, the road isn't getting any easier with Chicago hosting the Los Angeles Rams in Round 2.
Johnson is going to need his absolute best to beat the expected MVP, Matthew Stafford, and a talented young Los Angeles defense. While this is the focus, there is still time to enjoy the fact that the Bears are not only NFC North champions but cemented themselves as the clear favorites moving forward. The Detroit Lions' future is uncertain as they search for a new offensive coordinator, while the Minnesota Vikings have their own issues that need solving.
Throw in the fact that the Packers are going back to the well again with LaFleur, and Bears fans have every reason to love their NFC North outlook next season and beyond.