Update on Matt LaFleur’s Contract Negotiations with the Packers

Tom Silverstein of the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel, a prominent reporter covering the Green Bay Packers, recently provided insights into the ongoing contract discussions between the team and head coach Matt LaFleur. As the Packers aim to secure LaFleur’s position through 2026 and beyond, Silverstein notes that “negotiations are dragging.”

The Negotiation Focus

According to Silverstein’s sources, the primary issue isn’t just financial; it’s about the duration of the contract. While this perspective holds some truth, it ultimately ties back to monetary concerns. Silverstein posits that LaFleur’s market value is likely between $14 million and $15 million annually, yet the team is only proposing a one- or two-year extension.

Current Salary Insights

Previously, a source revealed that LaFleur earns “less than double” his initial salary in Green Bay. When he joined the team in 2019, his annual compensation was around $5 million. Silverstein reports that he now makes between $8 million and $10 million under his existing extension, aligning with the information provided earlier.

Underlying Financial Considerations

This discussion still fundamentally revolves around financial commitments. In coaching contracts, guaranteed money is typically the norm, excluding limited incentives. Therefore, despite claims that money isn’t the focus, it remains a crucial aspect of the negotiations.

Potential Contract Scenarios

If LaFleur were to receive a two-year extension valued at $14.5 million per year, in addition to the remaining year on his current deal (approximately $9 million), that could total $38 million in guaranteed funds. In light of John Harbaugh’s reported $100 million contract, there appears to be a notable disparity in offers between coaches who would be considered equally desirable in the current coaching market.

Comparative Contracts in the League

It’s essential to consider recent contracts assigned to up-and-coming coaches like Chicago’s Ben Johnson and Jacksonville’s Liam Coen, both of whom secured lucrative multi-year deals before becoming head coaches—Johnson at $13 million per year and Coen at $12 million.

Future Possibilities for the Packers

Silverstein mentions that the Packers may allow LaFleur to explore opportunities with other teams and seek draft-pick compensation should they decide to part ways with him. Meanwhile, defensive coordinator Jeff Hafley is viewed as a potential replacement and has already interviewed for multiple open positions within the NFL. As it stands, LaFleur seems to hold a favorable position in negotiations, leaving the Packers to contemplate their next steps.