Peter Schrager’s Bold Prediction: Could the NFC North Defy Odds with Three Playoff Teams?

Ever wonder if one division could throw a playoff party so wild that three of its four guests actually snag a spot? Well, that’s exactly the spicy debate NFL insider Peter Schrager sparked about the NFC North this season. With the Packers suiting up fresh recruits like Micah Parsons and Matthew Golden, the Lions witnessing some coaching musical chairs, and the Vikings betting big on rookie QB J.J. McCarthy, the landscape is anything but dull. Meanwhile, the Bears are grinding, but according to Schrager, they’re not quite knocking on the playoff door just yet. It’s that rare kind of division drama where every game could tilt the postseason scales — and honestly, it’s shaping up to be one of the most riveting stories in football this year. So, who’s really got the edge? Let’s dive into the frenzy.

The NFC North enters the 2025 season with heightened expectations and improved competition.

NFL analyst Peter Schrager recently shared his perspective, suggesting that three of the four teams have a legitimate shot at making the playoffs.

“I think the NFC North has an argument, and you could pick your permutation of those four teams. I saw a lot of people high on the [Chicago] Bears. I would be interested in that because of Ben Johnson, but I don’t think they’re in that same conversation just yet with those other three teams. I think the [Green Bay] Packers, [Minnesota] Vikings and the [Detroit] Lions could all be playoff teams this year,” Schrager said on “The Pat McAfee Show.”

"I think the Packers, Vikings, and Lions will all be playoff teams..

I don't think the Bears are in that conversation just yet" ~ @PSchrags #PMSLive pic.twitter.com/pvXztNGVre

— Pat McAfee (@PatMcAfeeShow) September 2, 2025

The Packers have strengthened their roster through key acquisitions.

Adding All-Pro edge rusher Micah Parsons and first-round wide receiver Matthew Golden gives them weapons on both sides of the ball.

The Lions face some uncertainty after losing coordinators to head coaching positions elsewhere, including Johnson to the Bears.

However, their core remains intact with quarterback Jared Goff leading an offense that features running backs Jahmyr Gibbs and David Montgomery.

The Vikings have placed their trust in quarterback J.J. McCarthy and expect to stay competitive while building around their first-year starter.

The Bears look to build momentum with offseason moves, but most analysts agree that they are improving but have not yet reached the level needed to compete for the title.

Every matchup carries significant postseason implications, making this one of the most compelling divisions to follow throughout the campaign.

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