Atlanta, Georgia, August 9, 2025
News Summary
The preseason game between the Detroit Lions and Atlanta Falcons was halted due to a significant head and neck injury suffered by Lions safety Morice Norris. With 6:19 left in the fourth quarter, the game was suspended as Norris was taken to the hospital, where he was reported to have some movement. The Lions were leading 17-10 when the game was called off. Both teams showed support for Norris, highlighting the emotional impact of such injuries in professional sports.
Atlanta, Georgia – The preseason game between the Detroit Lions and the Atlanta Falcons was suspended with 6:19 remaining in the fourth quarter after Lions safety Morice Norris suffered a significant head and neck injury. Following the incident, Norris was transported off the field in an ambulance. Fortunately, Lions coach Dan Campbell later reported that Norris was breathing, talking, and had some movement upon arrival at a local Atlanta hospital.
At the time of the suspension, the Lions were holding a 17-10 lead over the Falcons. Lions quarterback Kyle Allen had been performing well, throwing two touchdown passes during the game. The injury to Norris prompted a communal response from both teams, as players gathered in a circle to pray after the incident. The decision to suspend the game was made through discussions between Campbell and the NFL officials, who instructed that playing should not continue under the circumstances.
On the night of the game, there was also noteworthy action in other preseason matchups. The Falcons had two other games occurring simultaneously, one of which featured the debut of quarterback Shedeur Sanders for the Cleveland Browns. Sanders contributed to a 30-10 victory over the Carolina Panthers by also throwing two touchdowns. Meanwhile, the New England Patriots triumphed over the Washington Commanders with a notable performance, winning 48-18, highlighted by TreVeyon Henderson’s 100-yard kickoff return for a touchdown.
Players from both the Lions and the Falcons expressed their support for Norris. Falcons wide receiver Casey Washington described the situation as “emotional,” while running back Bijan Robinson took to social media to express his concern. Following the injury, Lions wide receiver Amon-Ra St. Brown and cornerback Terrion Arnold also conveyed their support for Norris.
Morice Norris, aged 24, was signed by the Detroit Lions as an undrafted free agent in 2024. The Lions have officially released a statement thanking the Falcons organization and the medical staff at Mercedes-Benz Stadium for their assistance during the unfortunate incident. The early suspension of the game underscored the unpredictable nature of professional football and the potential severity of injuries that players can face.
Key Performances
- Kyle Allen – Threw two touchdown passes for the Lions.
- Shedeur Sanders – Led the Browns to a 30-10 victory, throwing two touchdown passes.
- TreVeyon Henderson – Returned the opening kickoff for the Patriots 100 yards for a touchdown.
Team Reactions
The emotional toll of Norris’s injury impacted players and staff alike. Campbell and Norris decided to suspend the game, affirming that continuing was not the right decision. Players from both teams responded with empathy and unity, highlighting the camaraderie that extends beyond competition.
Background on Morice Norris
- Norris is a 24-year-old safety.
- Signed by the Lions as an undrafted free agent in 2024.
- Has been an important part of the Lions’ roster in the preseason.
Upcoming Games
Despite this incident, both teams are expected to continue their preseason schedules with an eye on player safety and health in subsequent games.
FAQ
What led to the suspension of the Lions-Falcons game?
The game was suspended after Lions safety Morice Norris suffered a serious head and neck injury in the fourth quarter.
What was the score at the time of suspension?
The Lions were leading the game 17-10 when it was called off.
How was Morice Norris’s condition after the injury?
Norris was reported to be breathing, talking, and had some movement after being taken to a local hospital.
What other games were taking place that night?
The Browns played against the Panthers, with Shedeur Sanders making his debut, while the Patriots faced the Commanders.
Key Features of the Event
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Game Status | Suspended in 4th quarter |
| Injured Player | Morice Norris (Lions Safety) |
| Current Score | Lions 17 – Falcons 10 |
| Other Games | Browns vs Panthers, Patriots vs Commanders |
| Outcome of Other Games | Browns won 30-10, Patriots won 48-18 |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Additional Resources
- NFL: Lions vs Falcons Game Suspended
- Detroit News: Lions at Falcons Preseason Live Updates
- The Falcoholic: Lions-Falcons Preseason Week 1 Recap
- Wikipedia: National Football League
- Google Search: NFL Preseason 2025
Author: STAFF HERE HOUSTON TX WRITER
HOUSTON STAFF WRITER The HOUSTON STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREHouston.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Houston, Harris County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo, Art Car Parade, and Chevron Houston Marathon. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Houston Partnership and Houston Area Urban League, plus leading businesses in energy and healthcare that power the local economy such as ExxonMobil, Schlumberger, and Houston Methodist. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAustinTX.com, HERECollegeStation.com, HEREDallas.com, and HERESanAntonio.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Texas's dynamic landscape.
