The NFC North has undergone a transformation in recent years, shedding its stereotype as a run-heavy division and evolving into one of the most balanced groups in the NFL. Elite quarterback talent, aggressive defenses, and ascending rosters make this one of the most unpredictable races of the 2025 season.
Sportsbooks view the battle as wide open, with three serious contenders and a fourth team poised to make things interesting. Here’s a breakdown of all four teams, their division odds, and what bettors need to know.
Detroit Lions
- +135 to win the division
The Lions enter 2025 as the favorites, a remarkable rise for a franchise that was long the NFC’s doormat. Dan Campbell’s squad has established itself as a power in the conference, thanks to a dynamic offense led by Jared Goff and a punishing ground game built around Jahmyr Gibbs and David Montgomery.
Amon-Ra St. Brown continues to emerge as one of the league’s most reliable receivers, and Detroit’s offensive line remains among the NFL’s best. If that unit stays healthy, the Lions should maintain their status as a top-five scoring offense.
On defense, the leap from average to elite is still in progress. Aidan Hutchinson is a cornerstone pass rusher, but the back end has been inconsistent. Bettors backing Detroit are essentially wagering on another step forward defensively. With their offensive firepower and Campbell’s culture, we’re betting on the Lions to repeat as division champs.
Green Bay Packers
- +250 to win the division
Green Bay surprised many league observers last season by not only reaching the postseason but also showcasing Jordan Love as a legitimate franchise quarterback. Now comes the next step, proving they can sustain that success.
At +250, the Packers present excellent value for bettors who believe in Love’s continued growth. Surrounded by a deep corps of young receivers and tight ends, Green Bay has quietly built one of the NFL’s most flexible offenses. Matt LaFleur’s scheme is perfectly matched to his quarterback’s strengths, and as the group matures, their consistency should improve.
Defensively, the Packers are undergoing a transition under a new coordinator, with more emphasis on pressuring the quarterback and creating turnovers. If their front seven can generate more impact plays, Green Bay has the roster balance to push Detroit for the top spot.
Minnesota Vikings
- +325 to win the division
The Vikings enter the season as the swing team in the NFC North futures market. At +325, sportsbooks acknowledge both the talent on the roster and the uncertainty at the quarterback position.
Justin Jefferson remains the division’s most dominant offensive weapon, and his presence alone keeps defenses honest. Pair him with Jordan Addison and T.J. Hockenson, and Minnesota has one of the most dangerous receiving groups in football.
Defensively, Brian Flores’ aggressive unit was one of the most improved groups in 2024. With another offseason to grow, it’s not hard to imagine the Vikings forcing their way into the thick of the race, especially if the quarterback room exceeds expectations.
Chicago Bears
- +525 to win the division
Chicago sits at the bottom of the odds board, but this franchise has several reasons to be optimistic. General manager Ryan Poles has built supporting talent around Caleb Williams, adding veteran linemen and playmakers at receiver and tight end. Chicago’s rebuild may not be complete, but the offensive ceiling of the Bears looks higher than at any point in the last decade.
Defensively, the Bears remain a work in progress. The front seven has improved, but they will need big strides from their young secondary to keep pace with the division’s explosive passing attacks. At +525, Chicago represents a classic high-upside underdog. If Williams avoids a sophomore slump, Chicago could be the NFC’s fastest riser.
Projected Outlook
The NFC North is shaping up to be one of the league’s most competitive divisions, with four teams capable of hanging around in the playoff picture. Detroit’s offensive balance makes them the logical favorite, but Green Bay and Minnesota each have realistic paths to the crown. Chicago is a long shot, though they may be the toughest “last-place” team in any division.
Prediction: The Lions narrowly hold off the Packers for the division title, while Green Bay also secures a playoff berth. Minnesota takes a step forward, but battles inconsistency, and Chicago proves to be dangerous, albeit one year away.
Bovada Sportsbook | CBS Sports
