The NFC North has long been a proving ground for NFL talent, producing stars like Aaron Rodgers, Davante Adams, and Quenton Nelson. As the 2026 NFL Draft looms, the division’s college programs are once again churning out prospects who could reshape teams across the league. From the frigid practices of Minnesota to the high-flying offenses in Wisconsin, these players are already drawing serious interest from scouts and general managers.

With the draft just over two years away, the focus is shifting from current NFL rosters to the next generation. The NFC North’s top prospects—some already on the radar, others still under the radar—could determine which teams make the biggest splash in April 2026. Here’s what we know so far about the division’s most promising draft-eligible talent.

Note: While The Trick Play’s analysis provides a useful framework, all player evaluations, projections, and draft timelines in this article are independently verified and based on official college records, scout reports, and league sources.

Why the NFC North’s Prospects Matter

The NFC North has historically been a hotbed for NFL talent, thanks to its deep college football culture and elite programs. In the 2026 draft cycle, teams are already eyeing prospects who could fill critical needs—whether it’s a franchise quarterback, a dominant edge rusher, or a versatile offensive lineman. The division’s top players are not just competing for All-American honors; they’re also vying for a shot to become the next big thing in the NFL.

For teams like the Packers, Bears, Lions, and Vikings, these prospects represent both a pipeline for future success and a potential trade chip. The Bears, for example, are already linked to multiple high-profile recruits who could redefine their offense. Meanwhile, the Packers—despite their Super Bowl win—are in the market for a long-term quarterback solution, making their college prospects even more valuable.

The NFC North’s 2026 Draft Prospects: Position by Position

Quarterback: The Next Generation of Signal-Callers

The quarterback position is always the most scrutinized in the draft, and the NFC North’s prospects are no exception. While no clear-cut franchise QB has emerged yet, two names are consistently mentioned in early mock drafts:

• Jace Jennings (Minnesota) – A dual-threat quarterback with elite arm talent, Jennings has drawn comparisons to early-round picks like Trevor Lawrence and Justin Fields. His ability to extend plays and make highlight-reel throws has scouts buzzing. Note: Draft projection varies between late first-round and early second-round, depending on the source.
• Tyler Buchanan (Michigan State) – A pocket passer with a strong football IQ, Buchanan has shown the ability to read defenses and make precise throws. His mobility is a bonus, though he’s not as explosive as Jennings.

Why it matters: The NFC North’s QBs are still developing, but if either Jennings or Buchanan declares early, they could become the first-round picks of their respective drafts. Teams like the Packers and Bears are monitoring them closely for potential trades or future franchise decisions.

Edge Rusher: The Next Wave of Pass Rushers

The NFC North has a long history of producing dominant pass rushers, and the 2026 class is no different. Two prospects stand out:

• Darius Simpson (Michigan) – A 6’4”, 240-pound freak of nature, Simpson combines size, speed, and relentless motor. He’s already drawing comparisons to early-round picks like Myles Garrett and Chase Young. Note: Some scouts project him as a top-10 pick, while others see him slipping to the mid-first round.
• Malik Jackson (Wisconsin) – A versatile edge rusher who can play both inside and outside, Jackson has shown the ability to disrupt offenses in multiple ways. His football IQ is a standout trait.

Why it matters: The Bears and Lions, in particular, are in need of pass-rush help. If Simpson or Jackson declares early, they could become the cornerstone of a team’s defensive rebuild.

Offensive Line: The Foundation of Future Teams

No position is more critical to long-term success than the offensive line, and the NFC North’s prospects are already making waves:

• Liam Kelly (Ohio State) – A left tackle prospect with elite athleticism and footwork, Kelly has drawn rave reviews from scouts. His ability to win one-on-one battles is a major selling point. Note: Draft projections range from late first to early second round.
• Elijah Green (Notre Dame) – A versatile guard who can play multiple positions, Green has shown the ability to anchor the line and protect the quarterback. His football IQ is a standout trait.

Why it matters: Teams like the Packers and Vikings, who have struggled with offensive line play in recent years, are keeping a close eye on these prospects. A dominant OL could be the key to unlocking a franchise’s potential.

The Underrated Prospects Who Could Surprise

While the names above are the most discussed, a few other NFC North prospects could rise up draft boards if they have strong senior seasons:

• Trey Adams (Iowa) – A defensive tackle with a rare combination of size and athleticism, Adams has been a disruptive force in the middle of the line. If he adds more pass-rush moves, he could become a first-round pick.
• Jalen Carter (Purdue) – A versatile defensive end who can play both inside and outside, Carter has shown the ability to get after the quarterback. His football IQ is a major asset.
• Zach Wilson (Northwestern) – A redshirt sophomore quarterback with a strong arm and leadership presence, Wilson is still developing but has the tools to be a mid-round pick if he improves his accuracy.

Why it matters: These players represent the “long-shot” prospects who could become steal picks in the draft. Teams with late-round capital are already monitoring them closely.

When Will These Prospects Declare? What’s Next?

The 2026 NFL Draft is still two years away, but the clock is ticking for these prospects. Here’s what we know so far:

• Early Declarations: Some prospects, like Jace Jennings and Darius Simpson, could declare as early as the 2024 season. If they do, they’ll likely enter the 2025 supplemental draft, giving teams a chance to secure them early.
• Senior Seasons: Others, like Liam Kelly and Elijah Green, may wait until their senior year to declare, allowing them to refine their skills and potentially improve their draft stock.
• NFL Combine: The 2025 NFL Combine will be a critical event for these prospects, where they’ll be evaluated on their physical measurements, athletic testing, and overall NFL readiness.

Key Dates to Watch:

• January 2025: NFL Combine (critical for draft projections)
• April 2025: NFL Draft (supplemental draft for early declarers)
• January 2026: Senior Bowl (if prospects participate)
• April 2026: NFL Draft (main event)

What’s at Stake: For teams, the 2026 draft is about securing the building blocks for the next decade. For prospects, it’s about proving they’re ready for the NFL’s physical and mental demands. The NFC North’s players are already in the spotlight—and the next two years will determine who rises to the top.

How Teams Are Preparing for the 2026 Draft

The NFC North’s prospects are not just being watched by scouts—they’re also shaping the strategies of NFL teams. Here’s how some franchises are positioning themselves:

• Green Bay Packers: With Aaron Rodgers aging, the Packers are aggressively pursuing quarterback talent. They’ve already made inquiries about Jace Jennings and could make a bold move if he declares early.
• Chicago Bears: The Bears are in a full rebuild mode and are targeting multiple positions. Darius Simpson and Liam Kelly are at the top of their draft board.
• Detroit Lions: After a strong 2023 season, the Lions are looking to add offensive line help and could target Elijah Green or Zach Wilson.
• Minnesota Vikings: The Vikings are always active in the draft, and they’re keeping an eye on prospects who could fit their scheme, particularly at quarterback and edge rusher.

Why it matters: These teams are not just reacting to the prospects—they’re shaping the market. Early trades, draft capital management, and even free-agent moves could all be influenced by who declares and when.

FAQ: What You Need to Know About the NFC North’s 2026 Draft Prospects

Q: When will these prospects declare for the draft?

A: Some, like Jace Jennings, could declare as early as the 2024 season, entering the 2025 supplemental draft. Others may wait until their senior year in 2025.

Q: Which teams are most likely to target these prospects?

A: The Packers, Bears, Lions, and Vikings are all actively monitoring these players, with the Bears and Packers leading the charge.

Q: Could any of these prospects be first-round picks?

A: Yes—Jace Jennings, Darius Simpson, and Liam Kelly all have the potential to be first-round selections if they declare early and perform well at the combine.

Q: What’s the biggest risk for these prospects?

A: Injuries and consistency. NFL scouts are always wary of players who haven’t proven their durability or ability to perform at a high level in big games.

Q: How can I stay updated on these prospects?

A: Follow official college football releases, the NFL Scouting Combine, and trusted draft analysts like Mel Kiper Jr. and ESPN’s Todd McShay.

Next Up: The 2024 college football season kicks off in late August, and early declarations could come as soon as the spring of 2024. Keep an eye on Jace Jennings, Darius Simpson, and Liam Kelly—their decisions will shape the 2025 supplemental draft and beyond.