Lions Safety Morice Norris Cleared to Return Home After Preseason Scare in Atlanta
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ATLANTA, GA – Detroit Lions safety Morice Norris was discharged from Emory University Hospital in Atlanta on Saturday, two days after being transported via ambulance following a collision during Friday night’s preseason game against teh Atlanta Falcons at Mercedes-Benz Stadium.The incident prompted an immediate halt to the game with 14:50 remaining in the fourth quarter.
Norris, 24, sustained the injury while tackling Falcons running back Nathan Carter. Initial observation suggested a potential head and neck injury after norris’s facemask made contact with Carter’s midsection, causing Norris’s head to snap back. Medical personnel attended to Norris on the field for approximately 20 minutes before transporting him to the hospital.
The Lions confirmed Norris was in stable condition late Friday night.He afterward posted on social media Saturday,reassuring fans: “I’m all good man don’t stress,” and expressing gratitude for the outpouring of support.
The Game That Stopped: A Moment of Unity
The on-field emergency led to a powerful display of sportsmanship. Following Norris’s injury, both the Detroit Lions and Atlanta Falcons teams gathered and held hands in prayer while Falcons quarterback Emory Jones snapped the ball. Lions Head Coach Dan Campbell and Falcons Head Coach Raheem Morris jointly decided to suspend the remainder of the preseason contest.
Morice Norris: From Undrafted Free Agent to Emerging Talent
Norris joined the Detroit Lions in 2024 as an undrafted free agent out of Fresno State. He quickly earned a roster spot and appeared in two regular-season games and one playoff game during his rookie season. He recorded 5 total tackles in his limited action. Norris’s position coach, Scott Fountain, has praised his dedication and rapid development throughout training camp.
The incident highlights the inherent risks of football and underscores the importance of comprehensive player safety protocols. The NFL has implemented numerous rule changes in recent years aimed at minimizing head injuries, including restrictions on helmet-to-helmet contact and improved concussion protocols. The league’s medical staff, overseen by Chief Medical Officer Dr. Allen Sills, were promptly involved in assessing the situation in Atlanta.
Norris’s condition will continue to be monitored by the Lions’ medical team. His availability for the start of the regular season, wich begins September 8th against the Seattle Seahawks at Ford Field in Detroit, remains uncertain.
Related: AP NFL Coverage
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