Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Aaron Rodgers got shellacked by the Houston Texans and then unsolicitedly went to bat for Green Bay Packers head coach Matt LaFleur. They evidently built a lasting connection together during their time together in Titletown from 2019 to 2022.
Rodgers speaking on LaFleur in the immediate aftermath of what could be a bitter ending to his illustrious 21-year career is telling. The former has a clear sense of respect and acclaim for the latter, and the feeling is evidently mutual.
LaFleur reportedly heard the comments ($) and was "both floored and touched that Rodgers vouched for him so conspicuously," per Michael Silver of The Athletic.
Matt LaFleur's reaction to Aaron Rodgers' comments couldn't be better
Although Rodgers' relationship with the Packers ended on a sour note, he remained close with LaFleur.
But considering how shocked LaFleur sounds, we'd say he was blindsided by the public support from his former signal-caller. Yet, that's what makes their communication through the media so captivating. Rodgers was being genuine, and his emotions were raw and palpable, which drew an equally authentic response from the Packers' sideline general.
Here was LaFleur's reaction, per Silver:
"'I'm speechless,'" LaFleur said. '[Rodgers] didn't have to do that, but he did. [It's] one of the nicest compliments [of] my life. I'm so appreciative of him for that.'"
Moments like this serve as a reminder that sports are more than a game. Sure, they didn't always see eye to eye in Green Bay, but Rodgers and LaFleur ostensibly developed a relationship that goes far beyond the gridiron. Despite their well-chronicled checkered past, it's clear there is plenty of admiration between them.
Two of Rodgers' four MVP awards came under LaFleur's guidance. They led the Packers to three consecutive 13-3 campaigns and two NFC Championship Game appearances alongside one another. Green Bay was among the league's shortlist of Super Bowl contenders annually during this stretch.
You can't mention LaFleur's place in Packers history without Rodgers, and vice versa. They've each been instrumental to their respective journeys in the pros. So, the latter used his platform to let the Green Bay faithful know how good they've had it with the former at the helm.