All four NFC North clubs entered the 2026 offseason after posting winning records, a rarity since the 2002 realignment. Detroit hired Drew Petzing as offensive coordinator and overhauled its line, drafting OT Blake Miller and signing three free‑agent linemen. Minnesota added quarterback Kyler Murray, Green Bay signed three defensive veterans, and Chicago drafted tight end Sam Roush in the third round, to cement a divisional edge.

Detroit’s biggest shock was cutting veteran tackle Taylor Decker, releasing Graham Glasgow and trading running back David Montgomery for O‑lineman Juice Scruggs and picks, saving $5.6 million. Underrated signing Isiah Pacheco should complement Jahmyr Gibbs for the Lions' ground game. Green Bay lost special‑teams coordinator Rich Bisaccia, promoted Cam Achord, and added veteran Tyrod Taylor on a $2.5 million deal.

ESPN analyst Mike Clay projects Detroit to win 12 games, the division’s best total, while DraftKings lists the Lions at +185 odds, ahead of Green Bay, Chicago and Minnesota. With a sixth‑easiest schedule, the Lions’ revamped line and Petzing’s scheme could translate early‑season stability into a playoff berth, leaving the other clubs to chase and a stronger defensive front.