The NFL dropped its full 2026 schedule on Wednesday, and it didn’t take long for reactions to start flying — especially from division rivals. But Packers head coach Matt LaFleur made it clear he’s not interested in outside chatter, firing back after comments from Bears head coach Ben Johnson and brushing off any suggestion that Green Bay got favorable treatment. LaFleur’s message was simple: the Packers aren’t worried about narratives. They’re focused on winning.
Matt LaFleur Responds to Ben Johnson’s Jab
Shortly after the schedule came out, Bears coach Ben Johnson made a subtle dig, implying that Green Bay’s slate looked “comfortable” compared to Chicago’s. It wasn’t a direct shot, but it was enough to get attention. LaFleur didn’t let it slide.
When asked about Johnson’s comment, LaFleur didn’t escalate things — but he didn’t ignore it either. He said the Packers “don’t care about the noise” and that every team has challenges on its schedule. His tone made it clear he wasn’t interested in a back‑and‑forth, but he also wasn’t going to let the idea of an easy schedule hang in the air. It was a classic LaFleur response: calm, controlled, and confident.
Green Bay’s Schedule Is Anything but Easy
If anything, Matt LaFleur has a point. The Packers’ 2026 schedule includes:
- Three of the first four games on the raod
- The first‑ever Thanksgiving Eve game at the Rams
- A game against the reigning AFC Champions the New England Patriots
- Multiple primetime matchups
- A late‑season stretch loaded with playoff contenders
There’s nothing “comfortable” about that. Green Bay will travel more than most teams, play in several short‑week situations, and face a string of top‑tier quarterbacks. LaFleur knows it — and he’s embracing it.
A Coach Who Likes His Team’s Mindset
One thing that stood out in Matt LaFleur’s comments was how much he trusts his locker room. He said he loves the way his players approach challenges and that the team is built to handle adversity.
That’s been a theme for the Packers over the past two seasons. They’ve leaned on a young roster, developed a new identity around Jordan Love, and proven they can win in tough environments. LaFleur’s reaction to the schedule release reflects that confidence.
The Bottom Line
Matt LaFleur isn’t interested in schedule debates or rival coaches’ opinions. He’s focused on preparing his team — and he’s not giving anyone outside the building the satisfaction of thinking their comments matter.
The Packers have a demanding 2026 slate, but LaFleur’s response shows exactly how he wants his team to handle it: ignore the noise, embrace the challenge, and get to work.
