A SERIES
#4 Detroit Lions: 4-13
Detroit is in the middle of a rebuild. Some may say they have been rebuilding for 60 years, but I believe they finally have a proficient coach in Dan “Kneecaps” Campbell. I’m sticking with #4 here because the Lions swapped veteran QB Matthew Stafford with the Rams and came away with Jared Goff and some picks. In my opinion, Goff is an average QB and will probably not be much of difference maker. On a side note, Penei Sewell was a great pickup, but I predict Detroit won’t make it to .500 this season.
#3 Chicago Bears 7-10
To be frank, I do not like the Justin Fields pick. However, I do hope Fields rises to the top and shuts down the negativity surrounding his work ethic and leadership qualities. He will have to prove himself quickly if he hopes to start Week 1 over Andy Dalton, which is doable. Several other Bears players will have to step up this season if Chicago hopes to make a run. The Bears tagged Allen Robinson, but it is doubtful he stays past this season. David Montgomery was productive in 2020 until Week 8 and then the Bears spiraled. I can foresee Nagy leaving unless the Bears break .500. I’m predicting #3 in the Windy City. Read more about my take on Fields here.
#2 Minnesota Vikings 8-9
Let’s be real, Kirk Cousins is not the answer for the Vikes. Minnesota may have realized this because they picked Texas A&M QB Kellen Mond in the third round. Furthermore, Minnesota didn’t make much of a splash in free agency, only signing Patrick Peterson. Meanwhile, they drafted tackle Christian Darrisaw in the first round. In short, Minnesota lacks weapons, but I think they will still finish at the #2 spot.
#1 Green Bay Packers 12-5
No matter what happens with Aaron Rodgers, I still see the Packers winning the NFC North for the third straight year. Rodgers, if not traded, will either retire, or choose to sit out the season until he is cut or traded. I believe that Jordan Love has the pieces for a playoff run. The Pack isn’t short on offensive talent: Davante Adams, Aaron Jones, Robert Tonyan and an elite O-line should provide enough cushion for whomever calls the shots at QB. Pack tops at #1. Read more about the Rodgers/Packers saga here.
With Rodgers on Packers
4. Lions
3. Vikings
2. Bears
1. Packers
Packers win the division.. by a LOT.
Without Rodgers
4. Lions
3. Packers
2. Vikings
1. Bears
Packers offense will be close to doo doo w/o Rodgers and their defense, well, it hasn’t been good since they won the super bowl.
Yes, I understand the Packers may have a problem without Rodgers, but if he is traded, there are quarterbacks who could slide in there. Love may be good to go in 2022, until then, they will need someone. If Rodgers is traded to the Raiders, they will get Derek Carr, who could be a decent replacement for Rodgers. If he is traded to the Broncos, they will get Teddy Bridgewater, a quarterback with some potential behind a good offensive line and decent weapons.