The Chicago Bears' electrifying playoff rebound against the Green Bay Packers has reignited one of the NFL's most storied rivalries. After clinching a thrilling 31-27 victory in the Wild Card round, Bears head coach Ben Johnson took the celebration up a notch with some colorful language directed at their arch-rivals, the Packers. The postgame outburst has now sparked heated reactions from both sides, with Green Bay safety Xavier McKinney stepping into the spotlight.
In a video that spread like wildfire, Ben Johnson was seen passionately declaring, “F— the Packers! F— them! F—ing hate those guys.” His comments, coupled with a frosty handshake with Packers’ head coach Matt LaFleur, quickly became the talk of the NFL. Addressing the media on Monday, Xavier McKinney didn't hold back while responding to Johnson’s remarks.
“He’s a troll, so it’s cool. I’m just not a troll,” McKinney said, showing respect for Johnson’s coaching skills but drawing a clear line between his own style and that of the Bears’ head coach.
McKinney's words reflect a sentiment shared by many Packers fans and players who view Johnson’s antics as provocative and unnecessary. Yet, McKinney also acknowledged the effectiveness of Johnson’s coaching, even as he criticized the coach’s approach.
Despite the backlash, Ben Johnson stands by his comments. On Monday, he unapologetically doubled down, reaffirming his disdain for the Packers. “I don’t like that team,” Johnson proclaimed, adding that he and Bears owner George McCaskey are aligned in their views. Johnson insists that this kind of rivalry intensity is integral to the Chicago-Green Bay dynamic.
Since taking the helm in Chicago, Johnson has never shied away from stirring the pot, famously admitting to enjoying victories over LaFleur twice each season. His stance has only intensified the competitive atmosphere between the two teams.
Johnson’s comments have drawn mixed reactions across the sports community. Iconic college basketball announcer Dick Vitale labeled Johnson’s antics as “classless” and “childish.” However, within the context of this historic rivalry, Johnson’s actions have indisputably heightened tensions. For the Packers, still smarting from their playoff exit, Johnson’s words serve as fresh motivation heading into the 2026 season.
As offseason preparations begin, anticipation for the next Bears-Packers clash is already building. With Ben Johnson reveling in his villain role and Xavier McKinney ready to answer on the gridiron, the stage is set for the next chapter in this fierce rivalry.