For the first time in 2025, and the last time in the 2024 regular season, here’s a look at what’s going on with all the NFC North teams not named the Green Bay Packers.
And just like that, the 2024 regular season is nearly over. While the Packers get ready to face the Bears in a game that technically matters, the Vikings and Lions are ready to clash for the crown. We know what’s up with the Green Bay Packers this week, so here’s a look at some news and notes from the rest of the division.
Chicago Bears
Caleb Williams makes history – The season may not have gone as the Bears had hoped, but here’s one positive note: Caleb Williams is officially the first rookie quarterback to amass over 3,300 passing yards, 450 rushing yards, and 6 or fewer interceptions. This calls for a celebration. Pass the Malört!
Jaylon Johnson is fighting to the last whistle – Asked about the upcoming regular-season finale against the rival Green Bay Packers, a largely inconsequential contest, Chicago Bears cornerback Jalon John had this to say: “Fuck em. That’s how I’m feeling. I’m going to try to go out with a bang.”
Mike McCarthy could eye Bears job – It remains unclear if Cowboys overlord Jerry Jones will move on from head coach Mike McCarthy at season’s end. Should he be in need of a job, McCarthy seems to have interest in the vacant chair in Chicago, which would complete an impressive coaching trifecta of historic NFL franchises.
Detroit Lions
Every possible Lions playoff scenario – Week 18 is full of mostly ho-hum affairs, but that’s not the case for the Detroit Lions season finale against the Minnesota Vikings. It’s a winner-takes-the-division game which has huge seeding impact for the loser. Here’s a look at every possible way Sunday could shake out
Amon-Ra St. Brown whines about the rules – The Detroit Lions’ star receiver, like many fans in Detroit and Minnesota, is sounding off on a playoff formula that will see one of those 14-win teams subjected to an away playoff path. Oop! All road games.
Change of pace: good injury news – It’s no secret the Lions have been decimated by injuries this year. After weeks of limping through on defense, though, there appears to be some possible good news as the playoffs approach: the return of cornerback Kalif Raymond.
Minnesota Vikings
Aaron Jones to Packers: “I keep up with y’all” – Former Packers running back and current Minnesota Viking Aaron Jones was all smiles after last Sunday’s win over the Packers, as he stood at midfield embracing and catching up with former teammates. “I’ve been watching y’all,” Jones said to Packers receiver Jayden Reed. “I keep up with y’all.”
Assessing Vikings’ offseason options with Sam Darnold – In this video, PFT lays out several paths the Vikings could take with QB Sam Darnold, sharing why Kevin O’Connell is the “perfect personality” to help continue his rise.
Uni watch: Vikings to don rare combo – Fans of rare uniform combos will be in for a treat this Sunday as the Vikings square up for their division-deciding game against the Detroit Lions. Different from their “winter warrior” alternates, the Vikings are slated to wear their traditional white jerseys, traditional white pants, and purple helmets.