Detroit Lions safety Morice Norris was removed from the field on a stretcher in Atlanta following a frightening collision in Friday’s preseason opener against the Falcons.
Players from both teams took a knee as Norris was treated by medical personnel and removed from the turf at Mercedes-Benz Stadium. Later players joined hands for a prayer circle at mid-field.
Details of the injury were not immediately known.
Norris was seen lowering his head as he attempted to tackle Falcons running back Nathan Carter in the second half. Carter’s knee appeared to hit Norris’ helmet, sending the 24-year-old’s head jerking backwards as he fell to the turf.
After an impressive college career at Fresno State, Norris went undrafted in the 2024 NFL Draft, but still managed to catch on with the Lions’ practice squad after failing to make the team after training camp.
Later, following a string of late-season injuries to Lions players, Norris was signed off the practice squad and made his NFL debut in Detroit’s playoff loss to the Washington Commanders.
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Norris (26) is hit in the helmet by Atlanta Falcons running back Nathan Carter (38)

Medical personnel aid Detroit Lions safety Morice Norris during Friday’s preseason opener

The Lions’ Morice Norris (pictured) was injured during Friday’s preseason opener in Atlanta

Detroit Lions and Atlanta Falcons players take a knee as Detroit Lions safety Morice Norris is helped by medical personnel on the field during Friday’s preseason opener