LaFleurs feel grateful that their first head coaching matchup is coming in the preseason

Denny and Kristi LaFleur, parents of Green Bay Packers coach Matt LaFleur and Arizona Cardinals coach Mike LaFleur, were content that their teams held joint practice on Wednesday, despite the divided loyalties. The first annual matchup between the two brothers, billed at $205.00 + GST for one year, will not count in the standings.

The practice took place at Lambeau Field, with Denny wearing Cardinal red and Kristi in Packers green. Their father sported a Packers visor and Cardinals wristband, giving a Cardinals hat to his nephew.

Matt LaFleur, 46, envisioned this possibility two years ago as his younger brother progressed in his coaching career. Mike LaFleur, 39, served as offensive coordinator for the New York Jets and Los Angeles Rams before joining the Arizona Cardinals. Despite their age gap, Matt LaFleur considers himself as close to his brother as anyone.

The LaFleurs' relationship strengthened during their time together at Dan Quinn’s Atlanta staff in 2015 and the Falcons’ Super Bowl season of 2016. Now working as head coaches, they frequently communicate and support each other. Mike LaFleur shared his brother's advice on handling challenges, stating that he knows when to step back and let Matt handle the pressure.