ANSWERING THE BIGGEST OFFSEASON QUESTION FOR EVERY NFC NORTH TEAM

ESPN published an article titled “Biggest off season questions for each NFL team,” so me, being the smart-ass I am will take those questions and answer them in an 8-part series (1 for each division.)

Chicago Bears

Q: How much ground can the Bears gain on defense?

As much hate as Jay Cutler gets. It’s the defense of Chicago that is really costing them. The Bears defense ranked 26th in the league in ESPN’s Expected Points Added (EPA). Vic Fangio, Chicago’s defensive coordinator is talented at what he does and bringing in A’Shawn Robinson (DT, Alabama) is the logical draft pick at number 11 in my opinion. They will gain ground, but be reasonable, expect a top-20 defense next season.

Short Answer: Top-20 defense next year (#26 in 2015)

Detroit Lions

Q: Can the Lions build a running game?

A: Detroit ranked dead last in the league in rushing yards and yards per rush this past year, and that has much to do with a weak offensive line. That isn’t the type of thing you can fix in just one offseason, but the Lions should consider selecting a tackle like Jack Conklin with their first round pick. It’s the first step in rebuilding a once great Detroit running game.

Short Answer: Not in the short term

Green Bay Packers

Q: What is the fallout from two really difficult seasons?

A: The Packers are 22-10 in their last two campaigns, just outside of the top 5 in the league. That’s nothing to be ashamed of, but Green Bay has had back-to-back Hall Of Fame quarterbacks and yet only has 2 Lombardi Trophy’s to show for it. I believe the Packers have to make a splash this year in the free agency market, even if that goes against Green Bay’s recent trend.

Short Answer: Pack should make a splash in FA

Minnesota Vikings

Q: Can the Vikings upgrade their protection of Teddy Bridgewater?

A: According to ESPN.go.com (You might have heard of them) Teddy Bridgewater was pressured the most of any quarterback in the NFL this past season. That’s a problem. However, there is good news for Vikings fans. ProFootballFocus projects  Joe Barksdale (OT) to be Minnesota’s #1 free agency target and NFL.com projects Cody Whitehair (OG) to be the Vikes’ top draft pick.

Short Answer: YES!