ss BREAKING NEWS: Packers president Ed Policy issues an ultimatum to Matt LaFleur amid a wave of head coach firings following Week 18
Green Bay, Wisconsin – January 8, 2026
In the wake of Baltimore Ravens firing longtime head coach John Harbaugh following Week 18, speculation has intensified across the NFL about potential coaching changes — and the Green Bay Packers have found themselves in the spotlight. Amid the swirling rumors, Packers president Ed Policy has publicly defended head coach Matt LaFleur, emphasizing stability and the value of retaining him despite escalating chatter about his potential dismissal.
Policy acknowledged the growing pressure league-wide for teams to make dramatic coaching moves, but stressed that LaFleur remains the best option for Green Bay. “We are confident in Matt and the leadership he brings to this team,” Policy said. “A lot of noise surrounds coaching decisions this time of year, but our focus is on what is best for the Packers long-term.”
The comments come amid reports that LaFleur’s contract carries a significant financial commitment, making any potential buyout or replacement extraordinarily costly. League insiders note that the salary implications of firing LaFleur could deter many rivals from pushing for a change.
LaFleur has led the Packers to winning seasons in six of his seven years, though his playoff record remains under scrutiny. Policy emphasized that success must be measured beyond short-term postseason outcomes, citing LaFleur’s ability to develop young quarterbacks and maintain consistency in Green Bay’s offense.
In a statement reflecting on his commitment to the team, LaFleur said:
“My heart has always belonged to Green Bay — to this organization, this locker room, and the responsibility I’ve carried for so many years. No matter what the future holds, that connection will not change. This is not about walking away, but about reflecting on how I can continue to contribute to this team and the game of football in the right way.”
While the NFL undergoes a wave of coaching movement after Harbaugh’s departure — including speculation involving several high-profile head coaching candidates — Policy’s remarks signal a commitment to continuity and strategic planning over reactionary decisions.
“The financial cost, the disruption to the team, and the leadership Matt provides all factor into our decision-making,” Policy said. “We are building a sustainable path forward, and we are confident in our head coach to guide this team.”
As Packers fans prepare for the postseason matchup against the Chicago Bears, the front office’s stance makes it clear: Matt LaFleur is not going anywhere for now, and Green Bay intends to maintain stability at the helm despite league-wide turbulence.
Legendary Coach Bill Belichick Turns Head with ‘Bold’ Claim About Broncos Super Bowl Chances
DENVER, COLORADO – DECEMBER 24: Head coach Sean Payton of the Denver Broncos greets head coach Bill Belichick of the New England Patriots after the game at Empower Field At Mile High on December 24, 2023 in Denver, Colorado. (Photo by Dustin Bradford/Getty Images)
The Denver Broncos may still be viewed as an underdog by parts of the national media, but one of the most respected voices in football is clearly buying in.
Legendary coach Bill Belichick delivered high praise for Denver’s postseason chances during an appearance with Jim Gray on the Let’s Go show.
He called the Broncos, along with the Seattle Seahawks, “definitely the two teams to beat” in the playoffs.
“When you look at Denver and Seattle, those are two good football teams that are very well balanced,” Belichick said.
“Denver’s been incredible with the number of close games they’ve won.”
If anyone knows playoff football and what it takes to win in January and February, it is Belichick.
“They’re both very good defensive teams, which I think is always an advantage when you play in the playoffs and play at home, and play outside.”
His endorsement is definitely a positive sign, especially coming from someone who rarely offers public praise without significant reason.
Belichick Among First National Voices to Fully Buy Into Denver
Denver has continued to prove time and time again on the field that they are one of the best teams in football.
But Belichick stands out as one of the first high-profile voices to treat the Broncos like a real Super Bowl team.
The Broncos have consistently found ways to win close games as they tied the NFL single-season record for most one-score wins.
Denver went a remarkable 11-2 in one-score games.
Their defense has been amongst the league’s best as they were top 11 in the eight statistical defensive categories.
The Broncos were the No. 3 ranked scoring defense in the NFL, only averaging 18.3 points per game.
They led the NFL in opponents yards per game, averaging just 278.2 and opponents yards per play with just 4.5.
Bo Nix has been one of the cutest quarterbacks in the NFL, leading the league with seven game-winning drives.
This is a team built to handle playoff football and Belichick agrees
Sean Payton Makes History Alongside Belichick
Denver’s amazing 2025 season has placed Sean Payton alongside Bill Belichick in rare historical company.
Payton became just the second head coach in NFL history to record five different 13-win seasons.
This was a milestone previously achieved only by Belichick.
What makes the accomplishment more notable is the path Payton took to reach it.
Four of those 13-win seasons came in New Orleans, but this one arrived in Denver after a major rebuild.
Just three years ago, the Broncos only won five games.
They are now 14-3, have the AFC’S No. 1 seed and are one of the Super Bowl favorites.
He has transformed the Broncos from a struggling franchise into a legitimate contender in just three seasons.
The consistency across eras, rosters, and conferences shows the impact of Payton’s system and leadership, putting himself alongside one of the all time greats.
That all time great has shown real belief in the Broncos as they head into the playoffs.
