Atlanta, August 9, 2025
News Summary
The preseason game between the Detroit Lions and Atlanta Falcons was suspended in the fourth quarter due to a serious injury to Lions safety Morice Norris. With 6:19 left in the game, Norris sustained an apparent head and neck injury, prompting immediate medical response. Despite the seriousness of the incident, updates from the Lions’ coach showed Norris was breathing and speaking. Players from both teams expressed solidarity and prayed for Norris. The Lions were leading the game 17-10 at the time of suspension.
Atlanta
The preseason game between the Detroit Lions and Atlanta Falcons was officially suspended in the fourth quarter following a serious injury to Lions safety Morice Norris. The decision was made with 6:19 remaining in the game when Norris sustained an apparent head and neck injury, prompting immediate medical attention.
Norris was taken off the field in an ambulance and subsequently admitted to a local hospital. Following the incident, Lions head coach Dan Campbell provided updates, indicating that Norris was breathing, speaking, and had some movement, suggesting a positive outcome despite the severity of the injury.
At the time of the suspension, the Lions were leading the game 17-10, with quarterback Kyle Allen having thrown two touchdown passes during the matchup. This game was part of a series of NFL preseason games, with the Falcons also having two additional games that evening. This included the debut of quarterback Shedeur Sanders for the Cleveland Browns, who led his team to a 30-10 victory over the Carolina Panthers.
Other Game Outcomes
In another notable game, the New England Patriots achieved a commanding 48-18 win against the Washington Commanders, which featured a 100-yard kickoff return touchdown by running back TreVeyon Henderson.
Response to the Injury
In the wake of Norris’s injury, players from both the Lions and Falcons expressed their support for him. Falcons wide receiver Casey Washington described the situation as emotional, while running back Bijan Robinson offered his support through social media. Both Lions wide receiver Amon-Ra St. Brown and cornerback Terrion Arnold also voiced their encouragement for Norris.
After the injury, players from both teams came together in a circle to pray for Norris. The decision to suspend the game was made jointly by Campbell and the coaching staff after consultation with NFL officials, as both believed it was inappropriate to continue playing under the prevailing circumstances.
Lions’ Statement
The Lions organization later released a statement expressing gratitude towards the Falcons organization and the medical personnel at Mercedes-Benz Stadium for their prompt response and assistance during the incident with Norris.
Background of Morice Norris
Morice Norris, aged 24, joined the Detroit Lions as an undrafted free agent in 2024. He had been positioning himself as a vital player in the Lions’ defense and his commitment to the team was evident through his performance during the preseason.
The suspension of this game not only highlights the physical risks associated with professional football but also demonstrates the solidarity and respect shared among players across teams in such critical moments.
Key Game Details
| Team | Score | Key Player | Touchdowns |
|---|---|---|---|
| Detroit Lions | 17 | Kyle Allen | 2 |
| Atlanta Falcons | 10 | — | — |
FAQ Section
What happened during the Detroit Lions vs. Atlanta Falcons preseason game?
The game was suspended in the fourth quarter after Lions safety Morice Norris suffered a head and neck injury.
What updates are available about Morice Norris’s condition?
Following the injury, Morice Norris was reported to be breathing, talking, and had some movement as he was transported to a local hospital.
What was the score at the time of game suspension?
The Lions were leading the game 17-10 when it was suspended.
Why was the game suspended?
The game was suspended based on a mutual agreement between coaches after the serious injury to Norris, following NFL officials’ instructions.
How did other players react to the injury?
Players from both teams expressed support for Norris, with some gathering to pray for him on the field after the incident.
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 PHILADELPHIA WRITER
PHILADELPHIA STAFF WRITER The PHILADELPHIA STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREPhiladelphia.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Philadelphia, Philadelphia 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 Mummers Parade, Philadelphia Flower Show, and Thanksgiving Day Parade. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Philadelphia Chamber of Commerce and United Way of Greater Philadelphia, plus leading businesses in telecommunications, food services, and healthcare that power the local economy such as Comcast, Aramark, and Children's Hospital of Philadelphia. As part of the broader HERE network, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Pennsylvania's dynamic landscape.
