'Never experienced anything like this': NFL game called off after scary injury

The NFL's pre-season game between Detroit and Atlanta was called off in the final quarter, after Lions safety Morice Norris suffered a significant neck and head injury on the field.

Play was stopped for nearly 20 minutes while paramedics from both teams attended to the 26-year-old.

Both teams came together in the middle of the field in Atlanta to pray for Norris, as he departed Mercedes Benz Stadium in an ambulance.

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Norris dives to make a tackle on Falcons running back Nathan Carter, with his head snapping back upon contact with the runner's leg. His head clearly bounces off the turf in the aftermath.

He was immediately knocked unconscious, with both teams quickly realising the significance of the injury.

Senior reporter for the Atlanta Falcons Tori McElhaney was at the game, tweeting that she has "never experienced anything like this before".

"The teams (are) just standing together at the 50 (yard line) as the clock runs. 10 minutes to go, and I think everyone is content to wait this out. Play is over in Atlanta," she said.

"Teams coming together for hugs and prayers at midfield. This was the right call by the league."

The Lions tweeted that Norris has been transported to a local hospital for further evaluation.

Coach Dan Campbell confirmed that the defensive back was conscious, has movement in his limbs and was talking as he departed the stadium.

Norris joined Detroit as an undrafted rookie out of Fresno State in California.