By Mmesoma 
The Detroit Lions, fresh off one of their most successful seasons in decades, may not be sitting on the NFC North throne for much longer — at least according to several NFL analysts.
In a series of early 2025 season predictions released this week, multiple experts foresee the Lions being dethroned by a bitter division rival, the Green Bay Packers. Despite Detroit’s recent rise under head coach Dan Campbell and quarterback Jared Goff, growing concerns about a tougher schedule, defensive consistency, and emerging threats within the division are casting doubt on their chances of repeating as NFC North champions.
ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler cited the Packers’ late-season surge and continued development of quarterback Jordan Love as a major reason behind the shift in momentum. “Green Bay looks like a team that found its identity late last season. With a full offseason under Love, and key defensive additions, they could very well leapfrog Detroit,” Fowler wrote.
Meanwhile, NFL Network’s Cynthia Frelund pointed to data models that give the Packers a slight edge in projected win total, citing better depth and a more favorable road schedule. “Detroit remains dangerous,” she noted, “but divisional games will be brutal, and the Lions can’t afford a slow start.”
Still, not everyone is ready to hand over the crown. Many analysts continue to praise Detroit’s culture and offensive firepower, with some labeling this year as a pivotal one in Campbell’s tenure — a chance to prove 2023 wasn’t a fluke.
The Lions are expected to open training camp later this month with high expectations and a chip on their shoulder. If these predictions are accurate, they’ll have plenty of motivation — especially when it comes time to clash with their oldest and most hated rival.
The NFC North is shaping up to be one of the most competitive divisions in 2025 — and the battle for supremacy may be more personal than ever.