Lion cornerback Morice Norris reports feeling well following a notably unsettling on-field injury
In a concerning turn of events during the Lions' preseason game against the Atlanta Falcons on August 9, 2025, safety Morice Norris Jr. sustained a head and neck injury [1][3][5]. The incident occurred during the fourth quarter, when a tackle by Falcons running back Nathan Carter resulted in Carter's right knee hitting Norris in the head [1].
Norris, who had signed as an undrafted free agent with the Lions, was on the field for one play on defense and 32 plays on special teams prior to the incident [2]. The game was halted as Lions trainers rushed onto the field, and the players from both teams met at midfield in a circle [1]. After a brief discussion between Lions coach Dan Campbell and Raheem Morris, Atlanta's coach, the decision was made to end the game [1].
The Falcons offense and Lions defense agreed to a symbolic gesture, bowing their heads and holding hands with each other [1]. The Lions went on to win the game 17-10 [1]. Norris was taken away in the ambulance, and Atlanta quarterback Emory Jones stopped the play in a show of respect [1].
Following the incident, Norris was taken to Grady Memorial Hospital in Atlanta for observation [3]. The team issued a statement after the game, reporting that Norris is in stable condition [3]. Norris had 116 tackles, two interceptions, two forced fumbles, and 17.5 tackles for loss during his two seasons at Fresno State (2022-23) [4]. He also appeared in two games for the Lions last year [4].
Despite the serious nature of his injury, Norris provided a positive update about his condition on social media. He expressed gratitude and optimism, thanking fans for their support and indicating he is "all good" [2]. The team is taking a cautious approach, with coach Dan Campbell reporting that they will proceed carefully over the next 10 to 14 days before reassessing Norris' status [1]. This cautious approach reflects concern about the severity of the injury and the typical recovery timeline for concussions [1][2][3].
References:
[1] ESPN. (2025, August 10). Lions' Morice Norris Jr. in stable condition after head injury. Retrieved from https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/34232239
[2] Norris, M. (2025, August 11). Social media post by Morice Norris Jr.
[3] Detroit Lions. (2025, August 9). Statement from the Detroit Lions. Retrieved from https://www.detroitlions.com/news/statement-from-the-detroit-lions
[4] Fresno State University Athletics. (2025). Morice Norris Jr. Player Bio. Retrieved from https://fresnostatebulldogs.com/sports/football/roster/morice-norris-jr/10035
- After the unfortunate incident during the Lions' game against the Atlanta Falcons, coach Dan Campbell and Raheem Morris, Atlanta's coach, had a discussion, and the game was ended.
- The Lions won the game against the Falcons despite the serious injury suffered by safety Morice Norris Jr.
- Emory Jones, the Atlanta quarterback, showed respect for Norris by stopping the play as he was taken away in the ambulance.
- Prior to the incident, Norris had been on the field for a total of 33 plays during the preseason game.
- In his two seasons at Fresno State, Norris had impressive stats, including 116 tackles, two interceptions, two forced fumbles, and 17.5 tackles for loss.
