The Chicago Bears enter the 2026 NFL season positioned to challenge for dominance in the NFC North, following a significant turnaround since hiring head coach Ben Johnson. Johnson, widely regarded as the best coach available last year, has helped the Bears reshape their status in a division long dominated by rivals. After finishing third or fourth nine times in the previous 11 seasons and compiling the NFL’s second-worst divisional record over that span, Chicago now stands on the cusp of reclaiming regional supremacy.
Several factors contribute to the shifting dynamics in the NFC North. The Green Bay Packers, who won 11 consecutive meetings against the Bears from 2019 to 2024, have lost some of their former intimidation factor following Aaron Rodgers’ departure. Despite retaining quarterback Jordan Love, who ranks among the top third of NFL signal-callers in key statistics, and head coach Matt LaFleur, who holds the third-highest winning percentage among active coaches, the Packers have struggled with consistency. Their season ended with five straight losses, including two late collapses against Chicago. The team also suffered a major blow when linebacker Micah Parsons tore his ACL late last season and remains uncertain for their Week 5 matchup with the Bears. Yet, the Packers have committed to Love through 2028 and extended LaFleur’s contract in January, signaling long-term confidence in their leadership.
Detroit’s Lions, coming off a 9-8 season, face questions following a precipitous decline after three years of steady improvement that peaked at a 15-2 record in 2024. Coach Dan Campbell, who publicly rated his own performance with “a freaking F,” now faces skepticism about his ability to maintain momentum. The departure of former offensive coordinator Ben Johnson to Chicago coincided with changes on offense, although the Lions retained a potent attack under quarterback Jared Goff, finishing fifth in the league in yardage and scoring. Detroit also brought in Drew Petzing as offensive coordinator, receiving praise from Johnson, which may bolster hopes of offensive consistency. Defensive shortcomings remain a concern, as the Lions allowed the 11th-most points last season.
The Minnesota Vikings continue to grapple with recent missteps, notably the decision to draft quarterback J.J. McCarthy with the 10th overall pick after letting Sam Darnold leave in free agency. McCarthy struggled in 2025, posting a passer rating of 72.6 with more interceptions than touchdowns, prompting the dismissal of General Manager Kwesi Adofo-Mensah. His replacement, Nolan Teasley, was appointed in June amid a broader effort to stabilize the franchise. Head coach Kevin O’Connell, recognized for his success in developing quarterbacks such as Darnold and Kirk Cousins, aims to revitalize two-time Pro Bowl quarterback Kyler Murray’s career. Boosted by top wide receivers Justin Jefferson and Jordan Addison and one of the NFL’s best defenses under coordinator Brian Flores, the Vikings hope to rebound from recent setbacks.
For the Bears, maintaining progress will hinge on quarterback Caleb Williams and Johnson’s continued leadership. While Williams has yet to surpass some of Love’s career benchmarks and the team’s defense remains an area of uncertainty, Chicago benefits from a relative equilibrium in the division. The coming season offers an opportunity not only to claim the NFC North title but to redefine the competitive landscape. If Johnson and Williams can solidify their roles as the division’s premier coach and quarterback, the Bears could shift the balance of power that has long favored their rivals.