Every NFC North defense ranked from worst to best in 2023

All four NFC North defenses disappointed last season.

The Green Bay Packers had high expectations for a defense featuring a combination of first-round picks, Pro Bowlers, and big free agency signings. A top-five finish felt reasonable, but Joe Barry's unit fell well short of those ambitious expectations.

It didn't get much better elsewhere in the division. The Chicago Bears, Detroit Lions, and Minnesota Vikings made up three of the bottom four defenses in yards allowed.

Work was required across the NFC North this offseason, leading to significant changes. But which teams have the best defenses entering 2023?

4. Minnesota Vikings

Minnesota's defense ranked 31st in yards allowed per game and 30th in points allowed. The team still won the NFC North with a 13-4 record.

Significant changes were needed on defense. The Vikings hired Brian Flores as their new defensive coordinator, a smart move.

However, the Vikings could actually get worse on defense. Three-time Pro Bowler Za'Darius Smith is gone, as is another former Pro Bowler, Eric Kendricks. The Vikings also moved on from key starters Dalvin Tomlinson and Patrick Peterson.

Star pass rusher Danielle Hunter held out of the offseason program, and the Vikings reportedly received trade calls for the three-time Pro Bowler. If the two sides can't agree on a new deal and the Vikings trade Hunter, their pass defense is in serious trouble.