NFC North Roundtable: First weekend of preseason games showcase the division's most important position

The NFC North is going to be the division everyone keeps a close eye on this year. That has already begun with the first weekend of the preseason behind us. Unfortunately, it didn't come without major injuries, as there were multiple within the divison.

What stood out for each team? One theme across the board was the performance of the quarterbacks, but who protects them also is a major factor. Let's take a look at the biggest storylines from each team coming out of the weekend.

Minnesota Vikings beat writer Tyler Forness: Quarterbacks shine

All of the attention was shined on J.J. McCarthy when it came to the quarterback position. He got the start on Saturday afternoon and played in just the first drive. That drive lasted 13 plays, and ended in a field goal. It was impressive from one standpoint: process. McCarthy hasn't gotten many reps in a live game situation, so having this was good, not just for McCarthy, but also for the coaching staff to simulate a regular season game.

Once McCarthy left the game, backup quarterback Sam Howell shone and fourth-string UDFA Max Brosmer both played really well. Where things get really interesting is third string quarterback Brett Rypien struggled in his time playing during the third quarter. How this group shapes out will continue to be interesting, but the first preseason game gives us a good baseline.

Green Bay Packers beat writer Wendell Ferreira: Youth in the trenches

Yes, it wasn't a great game for the Packers and we saw a repetition of big problems that were usual last year, like drops and special teams mistakes. However, nothing is more impactful for the future of this team than the development of its young players, and both lines presented positive news in that regard. On offense, young tackles Jordan Morgan and Anthony Belton played like the top picks they are, not giving up any pressures and being active and efficient in the run game.

On defense, three rookies showed skills along the defensive line. Fourth-round edge defender Barryn Sorrell generated two pressures with a solid combination of power and speed. On the interior, sixth-rounder Warren Brinson and especially undrafted rookie nose tackle Nazir Stackhouse had impact plays, with Stackhouse being a force against the run and putting himself in position to replace TJ Slaton's role.