Lions-Falcons Preseason Game Suspended After Injury

Players showing support for a teammate after a serious injury during the preseason game.

News Summary

The preseason matchup between the Lions and Falcons was halted after Lions safety Morice Norris suffered a serious head and neck injury. With 6:19 left in the game, Norris was transported to the hospital while both teams showed solidarity in prayer. The game was suspended with the Lions leading 17-10. Players voiced their concerns, highlighting the physical risks of football. Meanwhile, other preseason games saw notable performances, including the Browns’ win over the Panthers. The incident serves as a reminder of player safety in the NFL.

Atlanta – The preseason matchup between the Detroit Lions and the Atlanta Falcons was abruptly halted late in the fourth quarter after Lions safety Morice Norris sustained a serious head and neck injury. The game was suspended with 6:19 remaining on the clock, leaving the Lions with a 17-10 lead.

Following the injury, Norris was removed from the field by ambulance and transported to a local hospital. Lions head coach Dan Campbell shared that Norris was breathing, talking, and demonstrated some movement during the transport, providing a moment of relief amidst the distressing circumstances.

During the game, Lions quarterback Kyle Allen threw two touchdown passes, contributing significantly to the team’s lead before the unfortunate incident. The postponement of the game followed a consensus between Campbell and the Falcons’ coaching staff, who agreed it was not appropriate to continue playing after Norris’s injury.

In a show of solidarity, players from both the Lions and the Falcons gathered in a circle on the field to pray for Norris after the injury occurred. The decision to temporarily halt the game was made in accordance with directives from NFL officials.

The Monday night game also featured two other preseason matchups. The Cleveland Browns saw their rookie quarterback Shedeur Sanders make his debut, leading the team to a 30-10 victory over the Carolina Panthers. Sanders threw two touchdown passes in what was ultimately an impressive performance, although he personally felt his play was lacking. Meanwhile, the New England Patriots triumphed over the Washington Commanders with a score of 48-18, highlighted by TreVeyon Henderson’s 100-yard kickoff return for a touchdown.

Following the game suspension, Falcons wide receiver Casey Washington described the incident as “emotional,” emphasizing the physical risks players face on the field. Similarly, Falcons running back Bijan Robinson expressed his support for Norris via social media. On the Lions side, wide receiver Amon-Ra St. Brown and cornerback Terrion Arnold also voiced their concern and support for their teammate.

Morice Norris, at just 24 years old, joined the Lions as an undrafted free agent in 2024. The Lions organization later released a public statement thanking the Atlanta Falcons and the medical staff at Mercedes-Benz Stadium for their quick and compassionate response to the situation.

The suspension of the game marks a sobering reminder of the inherent risks in professional football. All eyes now turn to Norris as the NFL community rallies in support of his recovery. The health and safety of players remain paramount as teams navigate the intense competition of the preseason.