NFC North Rundown: Andy Dalton has ‘full control’ of Chicago’s offense

A bit of normalcy was regained in training camp this week for the Green Bay Packers as all contributors, including Aaron Rodgers, reported to 1265 Lombardi Avenue. While the Packers’ quarterback situation appears to be settled for now, the past week posed some questions at that position for some of the NFC North’s other organizations.

In Minnesota, a COVID-19 dilemma has kept a trio of quarterbacks off the practice field this week and set up a few emergency signings. While Kirk Cousins is fully expected to be the team’s starter at the end of camp, his absence creates some difficulties for the Vikings’ offense. Meanwhile, Chicago has two signal callers duking it out for the starting gig in Week 1, with the veteran Andy Dalton leading the first-team unit so far. Will Justin Fields be able to overcome a player that Head Coach Matt Nagy says has “full control” of the Bears’ offense?

Today’s divisional recap covers those stories after the first week of training camp.

Detroit Lions

Lions’ Jonah Jackson adds weight, martial arts skills ahead of second season

Last year’s third-round pick has flown under the radar as a starting lineup hopeful, and is also a fourth-degree blackbelt in taekwondo.

Wayne State product Anthony Pittman transforms body, role under new Lions staff

A local product, Pittman has bounced around linebacker positions during his time in Detroit, but is beginning to make an impression in camp for the new defensive staff.

Lions sign C Evan Boehm, activate G Evan Heim from reserve/COVID-19

The Lions added some interior versatility to their offensive line with the signing of Boehm this week.

Chicago Bears

Mustipher’s success story is only just beginning

The undrafted free agent worked his way into the starting lineup at center last season and is looking to improve upon his rookie campaign after working with a former Bears center again this offseason.

Goldman thrilled to be back with Bears after hiatus

Chicago is looking forward to having Goldman back to occupy offensive linemen and Goldman is excited to be back in a routine and playing with his teammates after a year away.

Chicago Bears QB1: Andy Dalton has ‘full control of this offense’ — and Matt Nagy says he’d be comfortable starting the season this week

If the season began today, it appears that the “true vet” Dalton would be the Week 1 starter for the Bears.

Minnesota Vikings

How Vikings’ Justin Jefferson will try to avoid a sophomore slump

Jefferson believes his “confidence” will propel him to another big season in year two for the Vikings.

3 Observations: Harrison Smith is Still Himself; Team Practice Disappoints Zimmer

Mike Zimmer was not pleased with the majority of his team on Monday during practice, but one player did stand out during the team’s activities.

Vikings place three QBs, including Kirk Cousins, on reserve/COVID-19 list

Minnesota ultimately signed a pair of quarterbacks on Monday after three of the team’s four quarterbacks were placed into COVID protocol.