ATLANTA – A preseason game between the Detroit Lions and the Atlanta Falcons was suspended on Friday night after Lions defensive back Morice Norris suffered a serious head and neck injury. The incident occurred in the fourth quarter, prompting an immediate medical response and a decision by both teams and the league to end the game prematurely.
Norris was injured while attempting to make a tackle on Falcons running back Nathan Carter. Replays showed that Norris took a knee to the head, and his head snapped back upon impact. Medical personnel, including trainers and an ambulance, were immediately brought onto the field. He was immobilized and eventually taken off the field in an ambulance.
Following the terrifying moment, players from both teams gathered in a show of solidarity. Instead of continuing play, the teams agreed to let the game clock run down. Officials ultimately announced the suspension of the game with 6:31 remaining. The Lions were leading 17-10 at the time. Lions head coach Dan Campbell confirmed after the game that there was some positive news regarding Norris’s condition, stating that he was “breathing,” “talking,” and had “some movement.” Norris, who is 24, was taken to a local hospital for further evaluation.
This injury adds to a string of recent setbacks for the Lions’ secondary, which has already seen several players sidelined this season. Norris, an undrafted free agent who signed with the Lions in 2024, had played in a handful of games for the team last season.