The NFC North has always been one of the better divisions in football and this year it proved to be one of the toughest. Injuries messed with teams, others struggled to find their footing, and the Lions claimed their first-ever division title through it all.
Looking ahead, change is coming for some as the Vikings seemingly enter the post-Kirk Cousins era. The Packers have found their quarterback of the future, and the Bears have the first pick in the draft.
For the Lions and Packers they head to the playoffs, not against each other either. The Vikings and Bears will begin their offseason with their eyes on what could be a wide-open NFC North when things circle back around in September.
Detroit Lions
Record: 12-5
NFC North Finish: First
Next Opponent: vs. Los Angeles Rams in NFC Wild Card Round
Draft Position: TBD
Green Bay Packers
Record: 9-8
NFC North Finish: Second
Next Opponent: at Dallas Cowboys in NFC Wild Card Round
Draft Position: TBD
Minnesota Vikings
Record: 7-10
NFC North Finish: Third
Next Opponent: N/A
Draft Position: 11th Overall
Chicago Bears
Record: 7-10
NFC North Finish: Fourth
Next Opponent: N/A
Draft Position: 1st Overall via trade from Carolina, and their own pick of ninth overall