The Green Bay Packers are entering Week 6 with momentum on their side, sitting at 3-2 and aiming to keep pace with division rivals the Detroit Lions (3-1) and the undefeated Minnesota Vikings (5-0). Their upcoming matchup against the Arizona Cardinals holds significance as they look to stay in the race for NFC North supremacy. But the Packers’ recent headlines aren’t solely focused on the field—off-the-field drama has fans buzzing, especially surrounding wide receiver Romeo Doubs and head coach Matt LaFleur.
A video recently surfaced that captured an awkward exchange between LaFleur and Doubs during a practice this week, following Doubs’ return after serving a suspension in Week 5 against the Los Angeles Rams. Despite Green Bay’s 24-19 victory in that game, attention has shifted to the tension between LaFleur and his second-most targeted wide receiver.
In the 19-second clip shared on social media, LaFleur is seen engaging warmly with other players, including wideout Christian Watson and safety Xavier McKinney, before approaching Doubs. The interaction between LaFleur and Doubs, however, was notably colder—a brief, ice-cold handshake with little engagement from the receiver, suggesting underlying tension. Doubs appeared to be reserved and distant during the exchange, fueling speculation about a rift.
This interaction between #Packers HC Matt LaFleur & WR Romeo Doubs doesn't look the best. What do you notice?
(h/t @CodyWKrupp)pic.twitter.com/Z7ULOcfvXr
— Dov Kleiman (@NFL_DovKleiman) October 9, 2024
The strained relationship comes amid reports that Doubs is frustrated with his role in Green Bay’s offense. In the four games he has played this season, Doubs has tallied 12 receptions on 20 targets for 169 yards, but his absence against the Rams opened the door for Jayden Reed and tight end Tucker Kraft, who led the team in receptions during Week 5.
Packers quarterback Jordan Love had a solid showing in Doubs’ absence, throwing for 224 yards and two touchdowns. Still, it’s clear the Packers’ coaching staff isn’t entirely pleased with Doubs’ approach. LaFleur hinted on his podcast that the receiver’s attitude needs adjusting if he wants to maintain his playing time moving forward.
With Green Bay focused on maintaining their competitive edge, the potential for internal discord surrounding one of their key offensive pieces could become a distraction. As the Packers prepare to take on the Cardinals, all eyes will be on whether Doubs and LaFleur can patch things up—or if this behind-the-scenes drama will spill onto the field, impacting the team’s success.
