Moving on from the NFC East, we turn to the volatile and competitive NFC North, where any team could become a Super Bowl contender with the right moves.
The Bears have key free agent questions to answer if they want to build on their momentum from an impressive 2025. The Packers could look to make a splash at kicker after their playoff loss. Meanwhile, the Lions and Vikings face major decisions at several high profile positions as they try to get back into the playoff picture in 2026.
Here is where each NFC North team should focus heading into the 2026 offseason.
Chicago Bears
Safety: Nearly every Chicago safety is set to hit free agency this offseason, including both starters, Kevin Byard and Jaquan Brisker. Byard is approaching 33, so it will be interesting to see whether the Bears bring him back or turn to younger options. Either way, restocking this position will be a top priority.
Left Tackle: Braxton Jones is not expected to return after struggling to secure the job. The free agent market at left tackle is thin, with Cam Robinson leading a fairly limited group, so expect Chicago to invest draft capital here.
Defensive Line: The Bears need more pass rushing support outside of Montez Sweat and could use upgrades both at right defensive end and along the interior. Shemar Turner could help in the middle if he takes a step forward, but adding another reliable edge presence would make a significant difference for this defense.
Green Bay Packers
Kicker: This will likely be the only team in this series with an urgent kicker need, but Green Bay’s playoff loss ultimately came down to missed kicks. Brandon Aubrey and Dallas are reportedly apart on his contract value, so if the Packers are aggressive, they could try to make a move.
Running Back: This is a projection based on current reports that Josh Jacobs could be a cap casualty this offseason. If that happens, Green Bay would suddenly have a major hole in the backfield, one the Packers could look to address in the draft.
Cornerback: The Packers need help on the outside and will likely need to turn to free agency to find it. Without a first round pick, a reunion with Eric Stokes could make sense after his one year stint with the Raiders in 2025.
Detroit Lions
Defensive End: The Lions’ pass rush fell short of expectations in 2025. Aidan Hutchinson was still working back from a serious knee injury, and the right DE spot offered very little production. If Detroit can add a capable edge rusher to draw attention away from Hutchinson, the overall sack numbers could take a significant step forward.
Linebacker: Alex Anzalone is a free agent and nearing the later stages of his career, and his return is far from certain. Outside of Jack Campbell, the Lions lack depth and proven talent at the second level, so expect them to target a couple of mid-level free agents to stabilize the group.
Left Tackle: Taylor Decker is reportedly considering retirement. If he steps away, this becomes an immediate priority, as protecting the blindside of a pocket passer like Jared Goff is critical. Even if Decker returns, Detroit would be wise to start planning for a transition at the position.
Minnesota Vikings
Quarterback: J.J. McCarthy has dealt with both injuries and inconsistency early in his career. The Vikings need to give him time to develop, but if he cannot stay healthy or improve his efficiency, they may need to lean on a veteran option while he continues to progress. Minnesota has already been linked to a possible Kirk Cousins reunion, so adding competition at the position is very much on the table.
Safety: Harrison Smith is widely expected to retire this offseason, though nothing has been made official. Regardless of his decision, the Vikings need both immediate and long-term reinforcements at safety. They could even look to trade up in the draft to target a blue-chip option like Caleb Downs.
Defensive End: The Vikings lack proven talent at defensive end in both the short and long term, and their defense would benefit greatly from a more consistent pass rush. If they can upgrade their edge presence, their strong cornerback group will be in position to capitalize on more pressured throws in 2026.
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