5 NFL teams primed to clinch the NFC in 2023 season ft. Cowboys

#4. Detroit Lions

For the first time since the days of Barry Sanders, the Detroit Lions are favorites to win the NFC North

The Detroit Lions last made the playoffs in 2016-17. They last won the NFC North in 1993-94. Both droughts could dramatically end this year, and then some.

Notwithstanding the gambling scandal involving some players, the Lions have a stacked roster led by arguably the division's new best quarterback Jared Goff, who has looked reborn since joining in 2021 via trade from the Los Angeles Rams.

Newcomers David Montgomery and Jahmyr Gibbs could form a fearsome running back tandem, while wide receiver Amon-Ra St. Brown looks to continue his newfound Pro Bowl form in tandem with Marvin Jones. They will have Pro Bowl offensive linemen Penei Sewell and Frank Ragnow to thank for the offensive opportunities.

The defense has also taken a step forward, with defensive end Aidan Hutchinson and linebacker Malcolm Rodriguez looking to build on their All-Rookie performances. CJ Gardner-Johnson and Emmanuel Moseley, whose former teams were in the NFC Championship Game, will bolster a secondary that already has Will Harris and Tracy Walker.