MIAMI -- Miami Dolphins defensive tackle Kendrick Norton was released from a hospital on Thursday, two weeks after a July 4 highway crash led to his left arm being amputated.
"I just want to give a big thank-you, first of all, to God for me still being here. Second of all, to Jackson Medical Center. They did a great job. They took great care of me while I was in here," Norton told reporters outside the hospital. "Next, I would like to thank the Miami Dolphins family. They've been crazy with how much help they've been willing to give and, you know, they really didn't have to."
Norton underwent at least six surgeries to close up wounds on his left arm, but he remained positive throughout the process, repeating how grateful he was for being alive.
The hope is that Norton will be able to get a prosthetic arm as he transitions to life after football. He confirmed last week that his playing career is over after the accident.
Dolphins coach Brian Flores has been a frequent visitor. General manager Chris Grier and several of Norton's teammates have visited him as well, giving their support.
All of Norton's medical bills will be covered by the NFL's and Dolphins' insurance policies.
Norton was cited as at fault for the July 4 accident with an improper lane change, due to him pulling in front of another vehicle and making slight contact with it before crashing into a concrete barrier, according to a copy of the Florida Highway Patrol accident report obtained by ESPN. According to the report, alcohol and drugs were not suspected as a factor in the accident for either driver.
There hasn't been any announcements on Norton's future in the NFL. He's still on the Dolphins' roster and could be placed on the non-football injury list (NFI) this season, when the team could decide to pay a portion or all of his $495,000 non-guaranteed salary.
Norton was selected in the seventh round of the 2018 NFL draft by the Carolina Panthers, and the Dolphins signed him off the Panthers' practice squad in December. He was expected to compete for a spot on the 53-man roster this season.