The landscape in the NFC North has taken a drastic turn. The Detroit Lions, who for years were considered the “ugly duckling” of the division, now remain the favorites to retain the crown they won last year. Under head coach Dan Campbell’s program and with Jared Goff leading a potent offense, the Lions have transformed their identity and have become an electric team on both sides of the ball.
However, there are no scripts written in the National Football League. The Chicago Bears have captured attention with the arrival of promising quarterback Caleb Williams, who is expected to be a key piece in their restructuring. The Green Bay Packers are excited about the development of Jordan Love, who is looking to establish himself as the successor to Aaron Rodgers. Meanwhile, the Minnesota Vikings have one of the best receivers in the NFL with Justin Jefferson, who is a constant threat to opposing defenses.
Offensive Star
Caleb Williams (QB)
22 years old
USC
Defensive Star
TJ Edwards (LB)
27 years old
Wisconsin
2024 marks a turning point for the Bears with the arrival of QB Caleb Williams, the number one overall pick in the draft. Known for making plays with both his arm and his legs, Williams brings hope. Although they have backed up Williams by adding WRs Keenan Allen and running back D'Andre Swift, coach Matt Eberflus' team will face growing pains.
ATTACK. Even without stepping on the field, Williams' presence has transformed the team's dynamic, generating excitement and high expectations in Chicago. Williams will have several high-caliber weapons to try to reverse the Bears' 7-10 record last season. The challenge for management will be to keep Caleb focused on the game and not let his arrogance overstep the bounds of teamwork.
DEFENSE. The linebacker proved to be the best free-agent addition last year for the Bears when he was a key part of the team's revamped ground defense, which was the best in the NFL. Edwards totaled 155 tackles. TJ is the anchor of Chicago's defense.
@TexansWeek 2
PackersWeek 11
@LionsWeek 13
@49ersWeek 14
@VikingsWeek 15
Offensive Star
Jared Goff (QB)
29 years old
California
Defensive Star
Aidan Hutchinson (DE)
23 years old
Michigan
As hasn't happened in over 30 years, the Lions will now be the team to beat. The team once viewed as lovable underdogs no longer plays with the wow factor in the division. Coach Dan Campbell's team will have to use all their weapons to prove that what happened in 2023 was not a football fluke and that they are once again contenders.
ATTACK. With 4,575 yards thrown and 30 touchdown passes, the Lions quarterback was back on the map and reminded us why he was the first pick of the 2016 Draft. Goff has corner men who will help him try to lead the team back to the NFC Finals. Standouts include receiver Amon-Ra St. Brown and tight end Sam LaPorta.
DEFENSE. His versatility and leadership on and off the field inspire his teammates. Hutchinson is not only a standout defender, but also a pillar in building the Lions' defensive identity. His energy on the gridiron is contagious. Last year he finished with 11.5 sacks and one interception.
RamsWeek 1
@CowboysWeek 6
@PackersWeek 9
@TexansWeek 10
@49ersWeek 17
Offensive Star ofensiva
Jordan Love (QB)
25 years old
Utah State
Defensive Star
Rashan Gary (LB)
26 years old
Michigan
In Green Bay, there is a reason to smile: Jordan Love. The man charged with succeeding Aaron Rodgers last season showed his potential. He threw for the second-most yards in the NFL (4,570). Due to expectations, coach Matt LaFleur's team was scheduled with five prime-time games and will play the first game in Brazil against Eagles.
ATTACK. The Packers quarterback enters the final year of his rookie contract. After proving he can be a long man under center, he will be looking to earn a $50 million dollar per season contract. His main mission will be to lead the Packers to the playoffs. Love and the Packers will face the fourth toughest schedule.
DEFENSE. The Packers defensive end is a playmaker who uses his power and speed to beat offensive linemen. His change of direction helps him get pressure on the quarterback. Last year he totaled nine sacks and forced two fumbles.
Eagles in BrazilWeek 1
@RamsWeek 6
49ersWeek 12
@LionsWeek 14
BearsWeek 18
Estrella ofensiva
Justin Jefferson (WR)
25 years old
LSU
Estrella defensiva
Jonathan Greenard (DE)
27 years old
Florida
With the departure of Kirk Cousins and open competition for the starting job between Sam Darnold and rookie J.J. McCarthy, the Vikings enter a transition period as they look to be competitive. Minnesota opens the season with three of its first four games against 2023 playoff teams. Coach Kevin O'Connell enters his third year with the team.
ATTACK. Although he missed multiple games last season due to injury, the Vikings rewarded Jefferson's contributions with a $145 million dollar, four-year contract. Jefferson's hands are not easy to come by and they know that in the purple office. Justin's versatility in route running will make him a primary target for the offense.
DEFENSE. Brian Flores' defense was able to bring in Greengard, a talented linebacker who recorded a career-high 12.5 sacks last year, although he doesn't get the national recognition he deserves. He also recorded 52 tackles, two passes defended and one forced fumble.
49ersWeek 2
TexansWeek 3
@BearsWeek 12
@SeahawksWeek 16
@LionsWeek 18
