The NFL is in its soft launching stage of the 2025 season. Out walks the bombshells and in walks the rookies.
I’m not here to coddle the NFC West. I”m here to help you figure out which teams are sinking and which ones are swimming this season.
Green Bay Packers
Vibe Check
You’re gonna see a pattern with the NFC North in that they can make the playoffs…and that’s it. The Packers made the playoffs the last two seasons without an NFC Championship appearance or any real deep dive into the playoffs.
The Packers made lots of moves this season, especially when dealing with wide receiver’s Christian Watson’s injury sustained in January. They were able to retain linebacker Isaiah McDuffie, kicker Brandon McManus and punter Daniel Whelan. They also signed guard Aaron Banks, cornerback Nate Hobbs, wide receiver Mecole Hardman and linebacker Isaiah Simmons.
Training camp, therefore, will literally revolve around fixing…*checks notes*…the entire team. They have a youthful roster full of potential, but Iogjam and Watson’s injuries create uncertainty for the team.
Verdict: Beige Flag
They’re just not exciting anymore, so they’re in this weird spot for me where yeah them and the Lions will make the playoffs, but it’s not like they’re really going to do anything after.
Chicago Bears
Vibe Check
Welp. The Bears are doing what the Bears do best: have less than 10 wins. I’m actually just tired of trying to defend them and say they’re gonna do good the next year, so I’m just gonna say they’re probably still not ready to contend.
That being said, they did bring in coach Ben Johnson who is known for orchestrating Detroit’s insanely good offense. They made a few offseason moves to build around quarterback Caleb Williams.
All eyes will be on how Williams can adjust in Johnson’s scheme. They’ll be focused on defense as well with bringing in Grady Jarrett and Dayo Odeyingbo, among others.
Verdict: Red Flag
I don’t have hope for the Bears despite bringing in a coach from the Lions. I think the Bears are perpetually in a state of despair until they can figure it out.
Detroit Lions
Vibe Check
The only exciting team out of the NFC North still failed to show up in a big way when they lost to the literal most boring team in the NFC East last year in the playoffs.
The Lions are a disgrace for letting the season end the way it did and still lost offensive coordinator Ben Johnson and defensive coordinator Aaron Glenn – despite not making the Super Bowl in the process.
The Lions brought in a handful of defensive guys and kept star Kerby Joseph. All eyes will be on coaches John Morton and Kevin Sheppard trying to maintain what little sparks of success the Lions had these past few seasons.
Verdict: Green Flag
I mean, someone has to win the NFC North and I’m just putting all my eggs in the Lions’ basket.
Minnesota Vikings
Vibe Check
It’s really becoming annoying watching the Vikings. How can you have done really well the past few seasons, including pulling out a 14-win season and STILL struggle? This is beyond me. The Vikings allowed nine sacks last season on Sam Darnold, too.
Despite their struggles, the Vikings dropped $296.59 million in free agency to bolster their lines. They brought in guard Will Fries, center Ryan Kelly and defensive tackles Jonathan Allen and Javon Hargrave.
Now, the Vikings also have no veteran backup and J. J. McCarthy has to figure himself out this training camp or else he’ll be on the receiving end of more sacks. There’s also a secondary cornerback battle with Mekhi Becton, Isaiah Rodgers and Jeff Okudah.
It’ll be interesting to watch training camp unfold for McCarthy’s potential, his inexperience mixed with a tough upcoming schedule will really test the Vikings team.
Verdict: Beige Flag
I know I also have no faith in the Vikings, however I believe McCarthy will want to prove himself and at least have a good season.
First & Jenn 
Leave a comment