NFC North Notebook: Jeffery to start conditioning program; Caldwell expects Ebron to soar
Every Friday, theScore's NFL editors will bring you a roundup of everything you need to know from around the division with the NFC North Notebook.
Chicago Bears
Jeffery set to start conditioning program. With the added responsibility of taking over the No. 1 receiver role, Alshon Jeffery will begin a new conditioning program. Coach John Fox believes it will help.
Bears take criticism for Ray McDonald signing. The team signing a player currently under investigation for sexual assault is not sitting well with many. He was also accused of domestic assault.
Transition at linebacker continues with signing of Foster. With the signing of linebacker Mason Foster, the Bears' transition away from the old guard on defense continues.
Detroit Lions
Secondary coach breaks down top three plays. Glover Quinn and James Ihedigbo are featured prominently for their strong play at safety. A couple of key interceptions get broken down on film.
Caldwell expects Ebron to rise in 2015. Touting an impressive offseason to this point, Jim Caldwell said he expects second-year tight end Eric Ebron to make a big leap in 2015.
Lions sticking with base 4-3 defense. Despite speculation that the addition of Haloti Ngata would mean the Lions would switch to an odd front, the team will not be adjusting its base. "Nothing's going to change," Caldwell said.
Green Bay Packers
Rodgers to call more plays at line of scrimmage. With head coach Mike McCarthy relinquishing his play-calling duties, quarterback Aaron Rodgers is in line for increased responsibility and is expected to make more calls at the line.
Nelson undergoes minor hip surgery. After Jordy Nelson was spotted at a Milwaukee Bucks game on crutches, Mike McCarthy was asked about his receiver's injury. Minor hip surgery was the answer.
Packers characteristically quiet in free agency. The only player they've signed other than Randall Cobb is a little-known defensive back off the street. The draft is still the Packers' bread and butter.
Minnesota Vikings
Zimmer optimistic about Patterson. Citing Cordarrelle Patterson's age, Mike Zimmer told reporters that it remains early in his development and praised the wide receiver for working hard in the offseason.
Vikings don't plan to trade Peterson. The back-and-forth has been going on for a while now, but it looks like the Vikings refuse to trade Adrian Peterson despite his unwillingness to play for them.
Vikings add Matthews, Mays. Trying to add depth to the defense, the Vikings signed veterans Casey Matthews and Taylor Mays. Both fit the mold of a tough and physical Mike Zimmer-type player.