The Chicago Bears are predicted to win the NFC North in the upcoming 2026 season, according to The Post's preview. Head coach Ben Johnson and quarterback Caleb Williams are expected to lead the team to a 12-5 record, building on their 11-6 performance from the previous year. The team has made strategic additions, including veteran center Garrett Bradbury and first-round pick Dillon Thieneman at safety, to bolster their roster.
Despite the departures of key players like safety Kevin Byard and wide receiver DJ Moore, the Bears aim to replace them with new talent. The pairing of Williams and Johnson is seen as having the potential to make the Bears true contenders. However, the secondary lost significant stability, a situation exacerbated by an injury to cornerback Coby Bryant. The division itself remains a formidable challenge.
Detroit Lions
The Detroit Lions are projected to finish second in the division with an 11-6 record, a bounce back from their 9-8 season in 2025. Running back Jahmyr Gibbs is set to be the focal point of the offense after receiving a contract extension and with the departure of David Montgomery. The offense features strong talent, including wide receivers Amon-Ra St. Brown and Jameson Williams, and tight end Sam LaPorta, supported by a solid offensive line.
New offensive coordinator Drew Petzing is expected to revitalize the offense. However, questions persist about quarterback Jared Goff's ability to lead the team to a Super Bowl, and concerns remain about the secondary. The team has also seen departures of key players like running back David Montgomery and linebacker Alex Anzalone.
Green Bay Packers
The Green Bay Packers are predicted to go 10-7. The team is transitioning from being the NFL's youngest for several years to becoming contenders. They have confidence in their quarterback, weapons, defense, and head coach. Defensive tackle Javon Hargrave has been added to reinforce a thin defensive unit, and Zaire Franklin was acquired to replace Quay Walker at linebacker.
Despite these moves, Jordan Love has yet to prove he belongs in the elite quarterback tier. The team also faces the suspension of Micah Parsons for the first four games. Doubts linger about head coach Matt LaFleur's ability to elevate the team, and the NFC North is considered one of the league's toughest divisions.
Minnesota Vikings
The Minnesota Vikings are projected to struggle, finishing with a 6-11 record. Head coach Kevin O'Connell is known for quarterback reclamation projects, and the team is hoping Kyler Murray can reignite his career after a difficult tenure with the Cardinals. Murray will have support from wide receiver Justin Jefferson and other playmakers. The roster outside of the quarterback position is considered solid.
However, Murray himself is a significant question mark, and backup J.J. McCarthy offers little confidence if Murray is sidelined. The team has seen key departures, including edge rusher Jonathan Greenard and safety Harrison Smith.