Has Sean McVay Been on Phone With “Close Friend” Matt LaFleur Ahead of Bears Playoff Game?

Ahead of the crucial NFC divisional round game in Chicago, the Rams head coach Sean McVay revealed that he stays in touch with Packers Matt LaFleur, who were knocked out by the Bears in the wildcard round.

Has Sean McVay Been on Phone With “Close Friend” Matt LaFleur Ahead of Bears Playoff Game?

Matt LaFleur, Ben Johnson and Sean McVay inside the circle (Image via IMAGO)

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Sean McVay is leaving no stone unturned as he aims to secure a second Super Bowl ring with the Los Angeles Rams. Standing between them are Ben Johnson and the Chicago Bears, who knocked out the Green Bay Packers in the previous round.

Packers head coach Matt LaFleur and McVay share a connection that dates back to their Washington Commanders (Redskins) days. LaFluer was the quarterbacks coach (2010-13) while McVay began as the offensive assistant, then coached the tight ends and later served as the offensive coordinator (2010-2016).

At a recent media briefing, a reporter asked if he’s kept in touch with his former colleague.

What would you guess? No, you know what — we watch the tape, we do our work, and Matt is a very close friend of mine.

Sean McVay joked

McVay surely has a few tricks up his sleeve to tackle the Bears in the Divisional playoff game. That said, LaFleur and the Packers’ insight could be valuable, having faced the Bears three times this season, including in the postseason.

Johnson and LaFleur don’t get along. Johnson has a dislike for the Packers and takes pleasure in beating the team from Green Bay. McVay might benefit from their ongoing feud.

Sean McVay is a fan of Ben Johnson’s work in Chicago

The Bears were quick to poach Johnson from rivals Detroit after finishing last in the division last year. Johnson not only impressed the Bears’ higher-ups but was also given free hand to address the roster’s issues.

Has Sean McVay Been on Phone With "Close Friend" Matt LaFleur Ahead of Bears Playoff Game?
Sean McVay and Rams quarterback Matthew Stafford (Image via IMAGO)

The rebuild began with second-year quarterback Caleb Williams. After being the most sacked quarterback in 2024, Johnson strengthened the offensive line by signing veteran free agents Joe Thuney and Drew Dalman. He drafted Boston College standout Ozzy Trapilo, Michigan tight end Coloston Lovel, and Missouri WR Luther Burden III. Combined with veteran DJ Moore, the Bears’ offense played efficient football.

McVay noted that Johnson established a culture that wasn’t there before his arrival.

You could see there’s a philosophy and core beliefs in terms of how he wants to build it. Look at the four free agents they signed, you look at the guys that they drafted high up, taking the tight end [Colston Loveland], and in a lot of the instances where he was able to take advantage of [Sam] LaPorta in Detroit.

Sean McVay said (HT/Heavy.com)

The Rams received an update on Matthew Stafford’s health ahead of the trip to Chicago

Veteran quarterback Matthew Stafford is as tough as they come. During his long tenure, Stafford experienced wear and tear regularly, yet he always came back for more. However, the Rams withered a massive scare when a finger on Stafford’s throwing hand bent backward during last week’s wildcard clash in Carolina.

Chicago is a very different beast compared to Carolina. Tackles feel even more painful in below-freezing temperatures. Fortunately, there was no permanent damage to his hand, and he’s ready to start undercenter in the divisional playoff game against the Bears.

Matthew Stafford simply said “great” when asked how his sprained finger feels. Said he doesn’t think the weather forecast in Chicago will impact how it feels, and he won’t wear any protection on it.

Rams beat writer, Adam Grosbard, tweeted

It’s welcoming news for the Rams. They are enjoying playoff football because of Stafford’s All-Pro season. He threw for a league-best 4700+ yards and 46 touchdowns in 17 games before captaining the Rams against the Panthers in the wildcard round.

The club from Carolina fought hard and took the lead with fewer than three minutes left. Eventually, Stafford sealed the win for the Rams by throwing a 19-yard touchdown pass to tight end Colby Parkinson. The game ended 34-31. Stafford completed 24 passes for 302 yards, threw 3 touchdowns, and one interception.

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