Lions S Saivion Smith (neck) taken off field in ambulance

FOXBOROUGH, Mass. — A serious scene drew silence among the fans at Gillette Stadium as Detroit Lions safety Saivion Smith was carted off the field in an ambulance during the opening quarter against the New England Patriots.

A member of his family was let inside the ambulance truck from the stands after Lions teammates circled around him.

Smith was later taken to a local hospital to be evaluated for a neck injury.

The Alabama product was a surprise starter for the Lions on Sunday after being elevated from the practice squad on Saturday.