NFC North Preview


 We're quickly approaching the 2025 NFL Season. As such, I'll be previewing each of the divisions over the next few weeks. We'll look at teams in order of finish, then I'll make a prediction for the new season.

Detroit Lions
2024 Record: 15-2
About: The Lions tied for the best record in the NFL, serving as the NFC's No. 1 seed. But they suffered a lot of injuries that took a toll in the post-season. Following the season, Offensive Coordinator Ben Johnson and Defensive Coordinator Aaron Glenn both left for Head Coaching jobs. But the Lions' big stars remain. This offense is loaded with Jared Goff, Jahmyr Gibbs, David Montgomery, Amon-Ra St. Brown, Jameson Williams, Tim Patrick, and Sam LaPorta. I expect them to be a force again and, hopefully, to stay healthier.

Minnesota Vikings
2024 Record: 14-3
About: The Vikings were a great story in 2024, as Sam Darnold served a career best performance. The team made the playoffs and posted one of the best records in the NFL. They didn't win in the post-season, and now Darnold is in Seattle. That leaves J.J. McCarthy to lead the offense. He remains an unknown. But the Vikings have Aaron Jones back in the backfield with Jordan Mason. There is a potential suspension for Jordan Addison that could also hamper the Vikings. We'll see how they fare.

Green Bay Packers
2024 Record: 11-6
About: The Packers were third in the division but still won 11 games and made the playoffs. They fell short in the Wild Card round, and will be looking for better in 2025. The team added a First Round receiver in Matthew Golden, but it's the presence of Josh Jacobs in the backfield that likely matters most. The Packers still figure to be a top team in the NFC.

Chicago Bears
2024 Record: 5-12
About: The Bears didn't fare well with rookie Caleb Williams. Now Ben Johnson is in as Head Coach to help build the team. They added receiver Luther Burden and tight end Colston Loveland in the draft, adding to a lineup with D'Andre Swift, D.J. Moore, Rome Odunze, and Cole Kmet. The Bears have some great offensive pieces. Can Johnson put it all together? That's what we'll find out.

The Bottom Line: I think the Lions are still a good team and will still win the NFC North. I don't think they'll win 15 games again, but I think they win about 11 and win the division. I think the Packers will push for the playoffs, too, and the Bears will be better, possibly making the playoffs, too. It's the Vikings that I am most dubious about. They were incredible in 2024, but I think the bubble bursts in 2025. It will take time for McCarthy to adapt as the starter.

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