As we close in on training camps opening and the 2026 season finally getting underway, fans can't help but look ahead and wonder how a crowded NFC North will play out. It is fair to view the Chicago Bears as favorites, even understanding the lack of repeat division champs in recent history. Leading us to look at projected records and standings in a division that will have an argument as the league's most talented.
With this in mind, let's look ahead to the end of the season, considering what the potential is for each roster if they're able to stay healthy. Starting with a Chicago team that is going to have no problem holding onto the North.
1. Chicago Bears- 12-5
Ben Johnson's offense and the continued development of Caleb Williams are going to be far too much for the rest of the division to contend with. Chicago has the most complete offense in the division and a talented defensive core that has the right leadership with Dennis Allen at the helm. Barring struggles or injury to Williams, this team isn't going to have any issue winning double-digit games and setting the pace for the rest of the pack.
2. Detroit Lions - 10-7
Detroit is going to become Chicago's biggest challenger after a short-lived hot start from the Packers. If not for losing depth at corner, there is an argument the Lions could make a run at the division. However, with the lack of defensive back depth, there is a clear weakness that the best offensive units will exploit, leaving the Lions as a wildcard contender and falling short of putting real pressure on the Bears.
3. Green Bay Packers - 9-8
Green Bay simply has lost too many meaningful pieces and handed the Bears a huge mental advantage after their playoff collapse. It is hard to see this roster going on any run of note based on a lack of depth at nearly every position group. The Packers missed their window to make a Super Bowl run, with the division now clearly belonging to Chicago, with the Lions as the only possible viable challenger.
4. Minnesota Vikings - 6-11
Quarterback woes are going to hold back a roster that has some nice pieces but not one decision-maker they can trust. It is hard to win games when you don't trust your quarterback, and that is going to be the case whether it is J.J. McCarthy or Kyler Murray taking the field as the Minnesota starter. The only thing the Vikings are competing for is draft positioning.
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