Matt LaFleur didn't take too kindly to Ben Johnson's Introductory Press Conference diss

Ben Johnson wanted all the smoke in his Introductory Press Conference. Matt LaFleur reportedly took the jab to heart.

Jan 22, 2025; Lake Forest, IL, USA; Chicago Bears head coach Ben Johnson answers questions during a introductory press conference at PNC Center. Mandatory Credit: David Banks-Imagn Images | David Banks-Imagn Images

Ben Johnson showed much respect to the Vikings and Lions head coaches, Kevin O'Connell and Dan Campbell, in his Introductory Press Conference. Then he said he enjoyed beating Green Bay coach Matt LaFleur twice every year.

🍿 pic.twitter.com/EX18yhWzlc

— Ari M (@AriMeirov) January 22, 2025

Could he have just been leaning into the most storied rivalry in NFL history? Sure.

Could he also have been taking a subtle (or even not-so-subtle) jab at the coach that he was 5-1 against during his days in Detroit? Definitely. The Lions enjoy a similar feud with their fellow NFC North foe, after all.

It sure seems like LaFleur interpreted the comments as the latter. The slight reportedly didn't fall on deaf ears with the team to the North.

Packers OC Adam Stenavich on how he took Ben Johnson’s shot at Matt LaFleur from his intro presser: “Yeah, you take it personal, for sure. I’ll just leave it at that.” pic.twitter.com/TnaRcmnoxN

— Matt Schneidman (@mattschneidman) December 4, 2025

On one hand, I understand that perspective. Teams are always looking for bulletin board material, and Johnson gift-wrapped some on his first day on the job.

On the other hand, I would be willing to bet that LaFleur never leaves the house in the winter without at least a few layers of clothes, given how thin his skin appears to be.

As I mentioned above, it's the most storied rivalry in the NFL. He showed love to the guy who helped him get here, referenced the other coach in the division (who does have a Coach of the Year Award under his belt) because it would've been even weirder if he was left out of the sentiment, and threw some banter towards Green Bay, because, well, you know..

If he's using it to hype up his players for gameday, then the more power to him. If they'll play hard for you, then they'll play hard for you. Personally, I think the fact that they have a chance to take the division lead over a heated rival should be enough motivation, but to each their own.

If he's got Ben Johnson's face on a dart board at home, then he needs to re-evaluate his perspective as a vital cog in a storied rivalry. And get thicker skin.

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