NFC North predictions for 2024: Will Bears take back division?

The Chicago Bears have wiped away the bad vibes of yesteryear. With Caleb Williams ready to take this offense to a new level for years to come and a robust defense led by some high-end performers, the Bears are not going to be a team who gets stepped on like they were in the past.

Williams and the Bears may start the season with a pair of duels against AFC South teams in the Tennessee Titans and Houston Texans, but the most important games on the schedule will once again be their six tussles with ancient NFC North rivals.

While the Bears might not be a Super Bowl team just yet (unless you're Nick Wright), there is a good chance Williams can lead them to the postseason. In the cutthroat NFC North, Williams will be given several meaty challenges as he tries to cut his teeth.

NFC North predictions for 2024

4. Minnesota Vikings (6-11)

The Vikings were dealt a major death blow when JJ McCarthy was ruled out for the entire season. While Justin Jefferson and a very aggressive defense will be good enough to help Minnesota pile up a few extra wins, Sam Darnold's inability to be a high-end starting quarterback will be enough to send them back to last place.

3. Chicago Bears (8-9)

The Bears have a high-octane passing gamer for the first time in forever. No. 1 pick Caleb Williams and new OC Shane Waldron will make a big difference, but the skill position trio of DJ Moore, Keenan Allen, and Rome Odunze is the best trio of wide receivers in Bears history.

When paired with an ascending defense led by stars on all three levels (Montez Sweat on the defensive line, Tremaine Edmunds at linebacker, Jaylon Johnson in the secondary), the Bears should be right around the .500 mark, which is impressive for a rookie quarterback.

2. Green Bay Packers (9-8)

Jordan Love was terrible for half of the 2023 season and nearly perfect for the other half. After his $220 million extension, the Packer's regular season success and postseason prospects will be determined almost entirely by how well Love is able to perform. Expect many Love vs. Williams duels in the future.

1. Detroit Lions (13-4)

These aren't your father's Detroit Lions. With Jared Goff leading an elite passing attack and the defense much improved from last year, Dan Campbell and the Lions are the favorites to win the division. If the Bears want to unseat Detroit, they need to put pressure on Goff and expose a still faulty secondary.