Bleacher Report ranks NFC North as second-toughest division in NFL

As of July 27, 2026, Bleacher Report has ranked the NFC North as the second-toughest division in the NFL. The division's competitiveness is evident, with only two games separating the Chicago Bears, who finished first, and the Detroit Lions, who were last. Last season, the Green Bay Packers reached the playoffs as a wild card, while the Minnesota Vikings ended with a five-game winning streak. Minnesota's potential for improvement rests on their quarterback situation as they aim for a playoff berth. All teams in the division could contend for postseason spots in 2026, making divisional matchups crucial for determining the champion.

• 2:55 AMYahoo Sports — Bleacher Report shows respect to the NFC North in rankings