The NFC North is shaping up to be one of the most fascinating divisions in the NFL heading into the 2025 season, with major coaching shifts, quarterback transitions, and blockbuster trades shaking up the hierarchy
2025 NFC North Predictions
Rank | TK | Mike Dogg | Streetz | Dylan | Bakley |
1 | Bears | Bears | Bears | Lions | Packers |
2 | Lions | Lions | Packers | Vikings | Lions |
3 | Packers | Packers | Lions | Packers | Bears |
4 | Vikings | Vikings | Bears | Bears | Vikings |
Chicago Bears fans have every reason to be optimistic. After hiring former Lions offensive coordinator Ben Johnson as head coach, the Bears are finally embracing a modern offensive identity. Johnson, regarded as one of the brightest minds in football, now gets to work with 2024 No. 1 overall pick Caleb Williams, who showed flashes of brilliance in his rookie year. With an improved offensive line, a growing rapport with receivers like DJ Moore and Rome Odunze, and a scheme tailored to his strengths, Williams looks poised to take a major step forward. If the Bears’ defense can hold up, Chicago could be a real threat to compete for the division crown.
Meanwhile, the Green Bay Packers shocked the league with a bold move—trading for Micah Parsons from Dallas. The elite edge rusher instantly transforms Green Bay’s defense, giving them the type of game-wrecker they haven’t had since the prime years of Clay Matthews. Paired with Rashan Gary and a young, opportunistic secondary, the Packers’ defense could be the missing piece to complement Jordan Love’s continued development. If Love builds on last year’s playoff run, Green Bay might be a dark horse Super Bowl contender.
In Minnesota, it’s officially J.J. McCarthy’s team. The former Michigan standout will now step into the spotlight after sitting behind veteran QBs during his rookie season. With Kevin O’Connell still calling plays and Justin Jefferson returning healthy, McCarthy will be given every chance to grow into a franchise quarterback. His maturity, athleticism, and poise could make the Vikings a surprise team if he acclimates quickly.
On the flip side, the Detroit Lions might face a setback in 2025. After a breakout 2023 and another playoff appearance in 2024, the Lions lost several key assistants—including Ben Johnson—and are now in transition mode. While Jared Goff and Amon-Ra St. Brown still lead a potent offense, the leadership void on the coaching staff could slow momentum, especially in such a competitive division.
In short, the NFC North is wide open—with rising stars, bold trades, and new faces in leadership roles reshaping the power dynamics for 2025.