With six of the division’s Team Needs in our rearview mirror, it’s now time to go to the division known as the black and blue division as we head north to go over the NFC North Team needs. This is a division that has been recently dominated by the Packers, but the Lions are getting quickly getting better and are charging. This division has loads of offensive talent and needs an injection of defense. Can this year’s draft do that? Possibly, but let’s see what each team needs 1st in the NFC North Team Needs.
Chicago Bears – The Bears were a mess by the end of the year. They have done a ton of work in the offseason rebuilding their team. They have dumped big contracts and older players for some younger cheaper players. I like what they have done this offseason and they have filled numerous holes. I couldn’t really find a dramatic hole on the defensive side of the ball, but there is still work to do on offensive end:
Right Tackle – Jordan Mills has not progressed in his two years in the league and there is a need for an upgrade at this spot.
Quarterback – Jay Cutler has always had the arm and ability, but his decisions have held the Bears back. They cleaned house with a few pieces this offseason and Cutler would have been one of them had they found a taker or if it was possible to cut him.
Detroit Lions – The Lions offense was not as explosive last year and it was primarily because of injuries to Calvin Johnson and the play of their line. Without Megatron in the lineup, it made everyone in the lineup have to play in a higher spot than normal. Golden Tate took advantage of being the #1 WR, but the rest of guys did not step up. Last year’s 1st round pick, Eric Ebron is expected to be much better this year, but they 1st have to take care of their issues on the o-line:
Right Tackle – The 1st part of the many parts of the offensive line that needs to be fixed is their RT. LaAdriane Waddle is not the answer and a pick should be used within the 1st three rounds.
Guard – Another spot that needs an upgrade on the line is the guard spot. The Lions were not able to run up the middle and it was mostly because of their guard and center play.
Center – Speaking of their center play, with Raiola not coming back, they need a true future center. They may not get him this year, but they need to start looking.
Wide Receiver – As mentioned before, when Calvin Johnson went down, the entire offense looked a little off, other than Golden Tate. They need another weapon for Matthew Stafford.
Running Back – I like Joique Bell better as a backup. He may be able to do the job as a starter, but I can see him wearing down. They need to get a backup to share the load with him.
Green Bay Packers – Led by the now two time league MVP, Aaron Rodgers, the Packers on offense have never been a problem. With what they lack, he has made up for with his athleticism and ability to make almost perfect throws that makes a WRs job look easy. With that being said, it would be nitpicking to say they need any more offense. If I were there GM, I’d be making at least six of my picks in the draft on defense, which would include the 1st three rounds. The following spots need to be addressed:
Inside/Outside Linebacker – They rather have an OLB, maybe two, so they can move Clay Matthews back outside, but he did such a great job on the side last year, if they get an OLB, he may stay there. Versatility is the key. Two of their 1st three picks should be linebackers.
Cornerback – Sam Shields is still very good and Casey Hayward played well last year, but the latter has one year left on his deal. Plus, you need three CBs in today’s NFL anyway.
Minnesota Vikings – It’s very hard to have any conversation about the Vikings unless the topic of Adrian Peterson is mentioned. Right now they are at a standstill with Vikings saying they will not release him, but Peterson saying he wants to be traded. Even if he is dealt, they still have a replacement in-house in Jerick McKinnon. However, trading Peterson would give them a few extra picks to fill the holes that they do currently have:
Left Tackle – As I’ve said numerous times, the two most important parts of building an offensive line is the LT and C. Vikings have to make sure that Teddy Bridgewater’s blindside is protected. Matt Kalil has to be better or be replaced.
Guard – The tackles and center are for the passing game, the guards are for the running game. Charles Johnson did not play well last year and they need someone to plow holes for McKinnon.
This division of all the divisions probably has the least amount of “Needs”. With Chicago and Minnesota doing great work in Free Agency and the Packers and Lions only needing to concentrate on one side of the ball, it leads you to believe this could be a great year for the NFC North. Each team has an above average, to good, to Elite, QB, so when you see a lot of good QBs, defense, specifically pass rushers, are a must. One thing is for sure, when you play against these teams, you better with ready to put points on the scoreboard if you want to win.
