The NFC North’s Competitive Landscape in 2025

A Division Once Feared

Not long ago, the NFC North was considered one of the toughest divisions in the NFL. The Detroit Lions, Minnesota Vikings, and Green Bay Packers combined for 40 wins in the 2024 regular season, showcasing their dominance. Even the Chicago Bears, despite their late-season collapse, looked like a playoff contender early on. However, the postseason was unkind to all three playoff-bound teams from the division, raising questions about their ability to compete at the highest level.

As the 2025 season approaches, the NFC North remains a division filled with intrigue, especially with the arrival of new Chicago Bears head coach Ben Johnson. His offensive brilliance in Detroit has already caused problems for teams within the division, and now he’s bringing his expertise to the Windy City. If he delivers on expectations, the NFC North could become even more unpredictable.

Ben Johnson’s Impact in Chicago

Johnson steps into a challenging role as the Bears’ head coach, but his familiarity with the NFC North gives him an advantage. Having served as the Detroit Lions’ offensive coordinator for the past three seasons, he knows the tendencies of the division’s top teams, including Vikings head coach Kevin O’Connell. But familiarity works both ways—O’Connell and the rest of the NFC North have studied Johnson’s offensive schemes, setting the stage for intriguing coaching battles.

However, numbers don’t lie. Since taking over as head coach in 2022, O’Connell boasts an impressive 5-1 record against the Bears. In contrast, he is just 1-5 against Ben Johnson-led offenses, with the Lions scoring at least 30 points in all five of their victories over Minnesota. If history repeats itself, Johnson’s arrival in Chicago could spell trouble for the Vikings and other NFC North rivals.

A Stronger Bears Team in 2025?

While coaching alone won’t turn the Bears into immediate contenders, the pieces are falling into place for a major leap forward. Detroit’s recent success wasn’t just about Johnson—it was also about talent. But with the Bears expected to improve their roster significantly in 2025, things could change.

One of the biggest factors in Chicago’s potential rise is Caleb Williams, the highly touted quarterback prospect expected to lead the team. If Williams develops quickly under Johnson’s guidance, the Bears could become a serious threat in the division. Add in defensive upgrades and a more complete supporting cast, and suddenly, the Monsters of the Midway might not be so easy to overlook.

The NFC North’s Unpredictable Future

The division has been dominated by the Lions, Vikings, and Packers in recent years, but the Bears’ potential resurgence could shift the balance of power. With Johnson at the helm and a young, talented quarterback under center, Chicago has the opportunity to shake things up.

As the 2025 season draws near, the NFC North is shaping up to be one of the most competitive divisions in football. Will the Lions continue their dominance? Can the Packers bounce back? Will the Vikings maintain their edge? Or will the Bears finally reclaim their place among the division’s elite? One thing is certain—this is a division to watch.