**Frank Ragnow’s shocking Lions retirement could flip the whole NFC North — and maybe give the Bears a shot at the crown.**
Losing a star center like Ragnow? That’s huge. He wasn’t just any player — he’s a three-time All-Pro, four-time Pro Bowler, and a key part of two straight playoff runs. Now, when the Bears’ D-line lines up, they’re not facing that monster anymore.
So, is the NFC North changing hands with Ragnow out? If he’s really done, that’s a game-changer.
Some say maybe he’s just pushing for more money — his contract still had two years and a decent cap hit, and Bears center Drew Dalman makes about the same without the Pro Bowls. But Ragnow says it’s health-related, so we’ll take his word for now.
The bigger picture? The Lions might not be the NFC North favorites anymore. The Bears could actually have a real shot now.
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### What’s going on with the Lions?
Detroit just lost a ton — both coordinators, a big chunk of their coaching staff, and now Ragnow. Their O-line was their rock, but without Ragnow (who called all the blocking plays), they’re in trouble.
Veteran Graham Glasgow will try to step in at center, but he’s mainly a guard and hasn’t started much at center lately. Plus, the Lions lost Kevin Zeitler, and rookie Tate Ratledge might have to start at guard. That’s a shaky line for sure.
And with Ben Johnson gone as offensive coordinator and defensive coordinator Aaron Glenn also out, the Lions aren’t the NFC North locks they used to be.
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### Vikings shakeup
Minnesota’s made some changes on both lines, and their biggest question is at QB. They won 14 games last year with a new QB, but this time they’re starting J.J. McCarthy — who’s never played an NFL snap.
Plus, with Johnson’s Bears offense having crushed Brian Flores’ Vikings defense four times, scoring 30+ points each game, the Bears might be riding that momentum too.
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### Packers stuck in a rut?
Jordan Love had his moments last year but was up-and-down this season. Without Christian Watson (out with an ACL injury), they’ve got rookie Matthew Golden stepping in.
The real question: does Ben Johnson have some secret sauce against Packers coach Matt LaFleur? With Johnson as Lions’ offensive coordinator, they beat Green Bay 5 out of 6 times. Weird, right?
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### Bears ready to rise?
Last year, Bears started hot but fizzled. Now Caleb Williams has a year under his belt, more weapons, a rebuilt O-line, and a defense with fresh help.
Johnson’s offense might be the key. While he’s never been a head coach, folks say he’s a genius at play-calling. Amon-Ra St. Brown even called him one of the best coaches he’s played for — super smart and creative.
Johnson’s offense uses trick plays that aren’t just gimmicks but smart, well-practiced moves that mess with defenses.
The Bears are all-in with new offense, new defense, and new players, and the NFC North just got way more interesting.
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In short: With the Lions losing Ragnow and their staff, Vikings facing QB questions, Packers hurting at WR, and Bears firing on all cylinders with Johnson calling plays — the NFC North might be wide open for the first time in a while.
Lions crash and burn — Bears ready to claim NFC North glory?
