NFC North Rundown: Young Bears impress, Vikings must figure out a role for Vedvik

After hanging on for a home victory to cap their season opener last week, the Green Bay Packers will kick off in Baltimore tonight against the Ravens. Notably, the Packers are expected to play Aaron Rodgers and many other starters for a quarter in week two after sitting the majority of them last Thursday.

On the injury front, the Packers appear to have survived a scare with second-year linebacker Oren Burks, who suffered a pectoral injury in the contest. Burks reportedly will not require surgery for the injury, a sigh of relief for an inexperienced middle linebacker unit.

The Packers’ main goal tonight will be to avoid further injuries, while hoping to see continued flashes from bubble players fighting for a roster spot. The rest of the NFC North division has those plans in mind as well, and today’s rundown includes several young players that have grabbed the media’s attention thus far.

Chicago Bears (0-1)

Lost 23-13 vs. Carolina; Next at New York Giants on Friday

Game Recap: Bears lose preseason opener to Panthers

The Bears came out healthy, especially Mitchell Trubisky who played just three snaps and did not attempt a pass.

5 Takeaways from Bears Training Camp: From Trubisky to kickers

While no kicker has yet emerged for Chicago, one new offensive skill position player has.

Who was the Bears Training Camp MVP?

A notable returning receiver got one Windy City Gridiron writer’s vote, but an under-the-radar wideout also generated attention for camp MVP.

Detroit Lions (0-1)

Lost 31-3 vs. New England; Next at Houston on Saturday

Film review: 4 takeaways from Lions’ loss to Patriots in preseason Week 1

In a game dominated by the Patriots, the play of offensive tackle Tyrell Cosby was particularly ugly in allowing three sacks.

Lions camp observations: Newcomer Johnathan Alston makes big impression

Among a slew of cornerbacks that stood out on Wednesday, Alston was a fringe roster prospect who impressed with footwork and instincts.

Detroit Lions Week 4 roster bubble watch: Big shifts on offense

Pride of Detroit contributors weighed in on the latest ins and outs for those on the roster bubble, including the risers and fallers of the week.

Minnesota Vikings (1-0)

Won 34-25 at New Orleans; Next vs. Seattle on Sunday

3 Stats That Stood Out: Vikings at Saints

A handful of second-year defensive linemen earned both sacks and recognition after a week one loss.

Report: Vikings make Laquon Treadwell available

It has not been a pretty start to a career in Minnesota for the former first-round wide receiver and he could be on the move.

Kaare Vedvik: Kicker/Punter Extraordinaire, or What?

Who? The Vikings traded a fifth-round draft pick earlier in the week for Vedvik, whose role with Minnesota this season is still a bit unknown. Yet, the Vikings’ history of fifth-round value with specialists has not been positive as of late.