Detroit Lions' Morice Norris Stable After Injury Halts Preseason Game
Detroit Lions safety Morice Norris Jr. remains in stable condition after sustaining a significant injury during a preseason game against the Atlanta Falcons on Friday night. The incident occurred with 14:50 left in the first half as Norris attempted to tackle Nathan Carter, resulting in a hit to the head and neck area.
Following the injury, Norris was transported off the field via ambulance, prompting players from both teams to allow the game clock to run down to 6:30 before officials announced the suspension of the game. At that point, the Lions were leading the Falcons 17-10.
In a postgame press conference, Lions head coach Dan Campbell confirmed that Norris was breathing and able to communicate. He noted that he and Falcons head coach Raheem Morris mutually decided to halt the game out of respect for Norris's condition.
"It was tough to watch," Morris remarked, emphasizing the emotional impact on both teams. "Seeing a teammate hurt like that is difficult. It was the right decision for both teams." He referred to the decision as "common courtesy" among coaches in such situations.
Campbell expressed his concern for Norris, stating, "Something like that happens, it puts things into perspective. We're just praying for Mo. I ask that everybody pray for him." He added that Norris had some movement and that further tests were being conducted.
The Lions later reported that Norris is in stable condition with feeling and movement in all extremities, and he was expected to remain hospitalized overnight for observation.
In other game developments, quarterback Hendon Hooker struggled, losing two fumbles early in his start, which diminished his chances of securing the backup quarterback position. Kyle Allen took over and threw two touchdown passes, showcasing his potential as a reliable option.
Allen's performance included a 68-yard completion to Jackson Meeks and an 11-yard touchdown pass to rookie Isaac TeSlaa, who made an impressive catch over Atlanta's Dee Alford.
The Falcons opted to rest their starting quarterback Michael Penix Jr. and backup Kirk Cousins, allowing Easton Stick to make a strong case for the No. 3 spot by completing 15 of 18 passes for 159 yards, including a touchdown pass to Chris Blair.
Emory Jones took over quarterback duties for Atlanta in the second half. Looking ahead, Detroit will host its third preseason game against the Miami Dolphins on August 16, while Atlanta prepares to face the Tennessee Titans at home on August 15.
