All four NFC North teams enter 2026 after winning records in 2025, the second time a division has finished that way since the NFL’s 2002 realignment, according to ESPN. The Bears, Packers, Lions and Vikings each used the offseason to address roster needs with moves meant to keep the division competitive.
The Minnesota Vikings added quarterback Kyler Murray, while the Green Bay Packers signed three veteran defensive free agents. The Chicago Bears selected Stanford tight end Sam Roush in the third round. Those additions bookend Detroit’s more extensive overhaul on offense, which has generated the most attention.
Detroit finished 9-8 in 2025 and, per ESPN analyst Mike Clay, carries a projected 12-win total for 2026. The Lions also have the sixth-easiest strength of schedule, and DraftKings Sportsbook lists Detroit as the favorite to win the NFC North, followed by the Packers, Bears and Vikings, according to ESPN.
Under general manager Brad Holmes and coach Dan Campbell, the Lions surprised observers by parting with longtime offensive tackle Taylor Decker and releasing guard Graham Glasgow in March. Veteran running back David Montgomery was traded to the Houston Texans for offensive lineman Juice Scruggs and draft picks. Detroit used the 17th overall pick on Clemson tackle Blake Miller and signed linemen Cade Mays, Larry Borom and Ben Bartch to prioritize pass protection for Jared Goff.
Improved blocking is important for Goff after a sharp drop in production when pressured: he posted a 14 Total QBR under pressure versus 76 when not, a 62-point differential, per ESPN Research. General manager Holmes also signed running back Isiah Pacheco, viewed as a complement to Jahmyr Gibbs despite Pacheco totaling 462 rushing yards and two total touchdowns in 13 games last season.
The Lions replaced offensive coordinator John Morton, who was fired after one season, by hiring Drew Petzing. Petzing spent the previous three seasons as Arizona’s offensive coordinator and, according to reporting from ESPN’s Lions beat writers including Eric Woodyard, has already earned respect from the coaching staff and players.
