If the Packers were to let go of head coach Matt LaFleur following Saturday’s playoff defeat against the Bears, it would certainly add an unexpected twist to a rather surprising NFL coaching season.
On “Sunday NFL Countdown,” ESPN’s Adam Schefter mentioned John Harbaugh as a potential candidate for the Packers, which could cause issues for the Giants who are also eyeing the Super Bowl-winning coach.
LaFleur’s current contract lasts until the end of the 2026 season, and Schefter pointed out that Packers president Ed Policy will have a significant decision ahead regarding a possible extension.
“The previous president of the Packers was Bob Harlan, and his son, Brian Harlan, is representing John Harbaugh. Plus, Harbaugh is a Midwestern guy and owns a place in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan,” Schefter noted. “There are many in the league speculating whether the Packers might choose a new direction, potentially making them the front-runners for Harbaugh.”
If the Packers dismiss LaFleur after seven seasons, he could quickly become a leading candidate for Harbaugh. However, this would also make him a prime target for the Giants and other teams seeking new coaches.
According to Paul Schwartz from a newspaper, Harbaugh is open to a discussion with Giants general manager Joe Schoen.
In a chat with Fox Sports’ Jay Glazer on Saturday, Harbaugh mentioned he plans to narrow his options down to three or four teams soon, aiming to make a decision this week.
The Giants are exploring many possibilities, as Schoen noted, and they’d likely include LaFleur on their list if he becomes available.
LaFleur, now 46, boasts a regular season record of 76-40-1 with Green Bay. He has led the team to the playoffs six times, though he’s faced early exits in the wild-card round for the last two years and hasn’t reached the NFC Championship Game since his first two years in charge.
