The NFC North has been one of the NFL’s most competitive divisions in recent years, but after a busy offseason, the landscape is shifting heading into the 2025 season. Here’s a breakdown of how each team fared:
Detroit Lions: Got Better
Detroit heads into 2025 fresh off a 15-2 campaign and an NFC Championship Game appearance. Despite losing key pieces like OC Ben Johnson (to the Bears) and All-Pro center Frank Ragnow (retirement), the Lions upgraded defensively with the addition of cornerback D.J. Reed and bolstered their linebacker depth by signing Zach Cunningham. Jared Goff remains the starter in an offense that’s proven it can light up the scoreboard, and the Lions are betting on continuity and a few smart signings to keep them atop the division.
Green Bay Packers: Got Better
After a playoff win in 2024, the Packers focused on shoring up their defense, adding linebacker Patrick Queen and safety Xavier McKinney. With Jordan Love showing steady growth and another year in Matt LaFleur’s system, Green Bay looks poised to push Detroit for the NFC North crown.
Chicago Bears: Got Better
The Bears made one of the biggest splashes of the offseason by drafting USC quarterback Caleb Williams first overall. They also added former Lions offensive coordinator Ben Johnson as head coach, signaling a fresh offensive vision. Paired with veteran additions and a young defense led by Montez Sweat, Chicago’s roster looks much improved on paper.
Minnesota Vikings: Got Worse
The Vikings lost veteran QB Kirk Cousins to the Falcons and replaced him with rookie J.J. McCarthy. While McCarthy could be their long-term answer, there’s likely to be a steep learning curve. Minnesota also faces uncertainty along the offensive line and questions on defense, leaving them as the biggest question mark in the division.
Bottom Line:
The NFC North is shaping up as a fierce battle between the Lions, Packers, and a revamped Bears team, while the Vikings enter a potential rebuilding phase. Expect Detroit and Green Bay to set the pace early in the 2025 season.
