For the upcoming 2026 season, the NFC North has undergone some changes, but what seems to remain the same is the Chicago Bears and their path to another division title.
The release of the 2026 schedule showed a kink in the Bears' armor, with tough matchups starting in September, including one NFC North team that might give them more fits based on their new potential starting quarterback. Bleacher Report writer Moe Moton shared the X-factors for each division in the league, noting that the NFC North's X-factor is the Minnesota Vikings, with quarterback Kyler Murray on the team.
"There are questions about Murray's leadership qualities, but he has the arm talent and mobility to make big plays in a well-structured offense. (Kevin) O'Connell helped revive Sam Darnold's career. He can do the same for Murray, who has accomplished more than Darnold before his one-year stint in Minnesota. Moreover, Murray will have one of the league's best pass-catching groups, which includes two-time All-Pro Justin Jefferson, Jordan Addison, Jauan Jennings and T.J. Hockenson. Look for Murray to garner Comeback Player of the Year buzz as the Vikings get back into contention for the NFC North title. Though if Murray struggles, Minnesota may scramble to acquire a quarterback before the trade deadline to salvage its season."
Bears don't have to worry about Kyler Murray in Minnesota
The Vikings should improve as a team with Murray at quarterback as they move away from J.J. McCarthy, but the NFC North is so dangerous that they are not the only problem child. Minnesota and Chicago also have to deal with the Detroit Lions and Green Bay Packers.
Over the offseason, momentum has been growing for the Lions to be better in 2026 and win the NFC North since they have the easiest schedule in the NFL this upcoming season. The Packers will always be competitive and in the playoff hunt.
Even with all these factors, the Bears are one of the best teams in the NFL and have shown as much in 2025. The young talent on the roster, with Caleb Williams, Rome Odunze, Luther Burden, Colston Loveland, Kyle Monangai, and Dillon Thieneman, gives the Bears hope for the future.
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Minnesota can have its new quarterback to navigate through a difficult division, but the Bears have already proven themselves worthy of holding the NFC North crown.
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