Damar Hamlin#In-game collapse

{{Short description|American football player (born 1998)}}

{{Use mdy dates|date=March 2024}}

{{Infobox NFL biography

| name = Damar Hamlin

| image = President Joe Biden met Buffalo Bills safety Damar Hamlin on March 30, 2023 in the Oval Office of the White House (cropped).jpg

| image_size =

| caption = Hamlin at the White House in 2023

| number = 3

| current_team = Buffalo Bills

| position = Safety

| birth_date = {{birth date and age|1998|3|24}}

| birth_place = McKees Rocks, Pennsylvania, U.S.

| height_ft = 6

| height_in = 0

| weight_lbs = 200

| high_school = Central Catholic
(Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania)

| college = Pittsburgh (2016–2020)

| draftyear = 2021

| draftround = 6

| draftpick = 212

| pastteams =

| status = Active

| highlights =

| statseason = 2024

| statweek = 18

| statlabel1 = Total tackles

| statvalue1 = 184

| statlabel2 = Sacks

| statvalue2 = 1.5

| statlabel3 = Pass deflections

| statvalue3 = 9

| statlabel4 = Interceptions

| statvalue4 = 2

| statlabel5 = Forced fumbles

| statvalue5 = 1

| statlabel6 = Fumble recoveries

| statvalue6 = 1

| statlabel7 = Defensive touchdowns

| statvalue7 =

| pfr = HamlDa00

}}

Damar Romeyelle Hamlin{{Cite web |title=2020 Football Roster |url=https://pittsburghpanthers.com/sports/football/roster/damar-hamlin/10766 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230103031445/https://pittsburghpanthers.com/sports/football/roster/damar-hamlin/10766 |archive-date=January 3, 2023 |access-date=January 3, 2023 |website=Pittsburgh Panthers Athletics}} ({{IPAc-en|d|ə|'|m|ɑːr}}; born March 24, 1998) is an American professional football safety for the Buffalo Bills of the National Football League (NFL). He played college football for the Pittsburgh Panthers and was selected by the Bills in the sixth round of the 2021 NFL draft. Hamlin spent most of his rookie season as a backup before becoming a starter in 2022 following a season-ending injury to Micah Hyde.{{Cite news|last1=Morgan|first1=Emmanuel|last2=Belson|first2=Ken|date=January 3, 2023|title=Damar Hamlin of Buffalo Bills in Critical Condition After Collapsing During N.F.L. Game|language=en-US|work=The New York Times|url=https://www.nytimes.com/2023/01/02/sports/football/damar-hamlin-bills-hit.html|access-date=January 6, 2023|issn=0362-4331|archive-date=January 3, 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230103031621/https://www.nytimes.com/2023/01/02/sports/football/damar-hamlin-bills-hit.html|url-status=live}}

During a Monday Night Football game against the Cincinnati Bengals on January 2, 2023, Hamlin suffered a cardiac arrest after making a tackle,{{Cite web |last1=Yeung |first1=Jessie |last2=Elamroussi |first2=Aya |last3=Federico O'Murchú |first3=Sean |date=January 3, 2023 |title=BREAKING: Damar Hamlin suffered cardiac arrest and is in critical condition, Buffalo Bills say |url=https://www.cnn.com/us/live-news/damar-hamlin-collapse-bills-bengals-game-intl-hnk/h_d7f999444b79e1a3649ccabca87ec5d0 |access-date=January 3, 2023 |work=CNN |archive-date=January 3, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230103070403/https://www.cnn.com/us/live-news/damar-hamlin-collapse-bills-bengals-game-intl-hnk/h_d7f999444b79e1a3649ccabca87ec5d0 |url-status=live }} and he was hospitalized in critical condition.{{Cite web|url=https://www.foxnews.com/sports/bills-damar-hamlin-collapses-field-medical-staff-appear-administer-cpr|title=Bills' Damar Hamlin collapses on the field, game temporarily suspended|first=Ryan|last=Gaydos|date=January 2, 2023|website=FoxNews.com|access-date=January 3, 2023|archive-date=January 16, 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230116203927/https://www.foxnews.com/sports/bills-damar-hamlin-collapses-field-medical-staff-appear-administer-cpr|url-status=live}} He was released from the hospital nine days later and eventually returned to professional football.{{Cite web |last=Li |first=David |last2=Bendix |first2=Aria |date=January 9, 2023 |title=Damar Hamlin is released from UC medical center after his cardiac arrest |url=https://www.nbcnews.com/news/us-news/damar-hamlin-released-hospital-cardiac-arrest-rcna64887 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230109202224/https://www.nbcnews.com/news/us-news/damar-hamlin-released-hospital-cardiac-arrest-rcna64887 |archive-date=January 9, 2023 |access-date=January 9, 2023 |website=NBC News}}{{Cite web |last=Young |first=Ryan |date=January 9, 2023 |title=Bills S Damar Hamlin discharged from Cincinnati hospital 1 week after terrifying collapse |url=https://sports.yahoo.com/bills-s-damar-hamlin-discharged-from-cincinnati-hospital-1-week-after-terrifying-collapse-201301750.html?guccounter=1&guce_referrer=aHR0cHM6Ly93d3cuZ29vZ2xlLmNvbS8&guce_referrer_sig=AQAAAIF9LOEMmbHnXtpcTxZrfM-QxlKG-uQk_rhiFUICEdEPVAXpildRjReeUVHT-LfAIIGfss3HCaorCbqULZk97eQM8I9vcGops-h-RDMcG9v_8_E6LzT6aV-vb4CEO5okTI4Yx97IZ_bahESSBpdtZtDgSoSxI-RNngRS3RPlc4X5 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230109202639/https://sports.yahoo.com/bills-s-damar-hamlin-discharged-from-cincinnati-hospital-1-week-after-terrifying-collapse-201301750.html?guccounter=1&guce_referrer=aHR0cHM6Ly93d3cuZ29vZ2xlLmNvbS8&guce_referrer_sig=AQAAAIF9LOEMmbHnXtpcTxZrfM-QxlKG-uQk_rhiFUICEdEPVAXpildRjReeUVHT-LfAIIGfss3HCaorCbqULZk97eQM8I9vcGops-h-RDMcG9v_8_E6LzT6aV-vb4CEO5okTI4Yx97IZ_bahESSBpdtZtDgSoSxI-RNngRS3RPlc4X5 |archive-date=January 9, 2023 |access-date=January 9, 2023 |website=Yahoo! Sports}}

{{TOC limit|4}}

Early life

Hamlin was raised in McKees Rocks, Pennsylvania. He attended Central Catholic High School in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.{{Cite news |last=DiPaola |first=Jerry |date=April 27, 2021 |title=On cusp of NFL career, ex-Pitt player Damar Hamlin enters new world of digital trading cards |language=en-US |work=Tribune-Review |url=https://triblive.com/sports/on-cusp-of-nfl-career-ex-pitt-player-damar-hamlin-enters-new-world-of-digital-trading-cards/ |access-date=January 2, 2023 |archive-date=January 3, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230103024606/https://triblive.com/sports/on-cusp-of-nfl-career-ex-pitt-player-damar-hamlin-enters-new-world-of-digital-trading-cards/ |url-status=live }} He was named first-team All-State and the Class AAAA Defensive Player of the Year.{{Cite news |date=February 3, 2016 |title=Signing Day: Damar Hamlin headlines homegrown talent for Pitt |work=WTAE-TV |url=https://www.wtae.com/article/signing-day-damar-hamlin-headlines-homegrown-talent-for-pitt/7477477 |access-date=January 2, 2023 |archive-date=January 3, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230103040220/https://www.wtae.com/article/signing-day-damar-hamlin-headlines-homegrown-talent-for-pitt/7477477 |url-status=live }}

{{College Athlete Recruit Start|40=yes|collapse=no|year=2015}}

{{College Athlete Recruit Entry

| recruit = Damar Hamlin

| position = Safety

| hometown = McKees Rocks, PA

| highschool = Central Catholic High School

| feet = 6

| inches = 1

| weight = 185

| 40 = 4.60

| commitdate = February 2, 2016

| rivals stars = 4

| 247 stars = 4

| espn grade = 83

}}

{{College Athlete Recruit End

| 40 = yes

| year = 2016

}}

College career

File:Damar Hamlin at the 2019 Quick Lane Bowl 45 (Eastern Michigan on offense) (cropped).jpg in 2019]]

Hamlin was considered a top cornerback coming out of Central Catholic High School. He was a four-star recruit and was pursued by major college football programs including Pittsburgh, Penn State, Ohio State and Temple.{{cite news |last=White |first=Mike |title=Central Catholic Defense |url=https://www.newspapers.com/clip/115693535/central-catholic-defense/ |newspaper=Pittsburgh Post-Gazette |date=August 28, 2015 |page=80 |via=Newspapers.com |access-date=January 2, 2023 |archive-date=January 3, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230103044616/https://www.newspapers.com/clip/115693535/central-catholic-defense/ |url-status=live }}{{cite news|title=Damar Hamlin|url=https://247sports.com/Recruitment/Damar-Hamlin-49558/RecruitInterests/|newspaper=247Sports|date=January 3, 2022|access-date=January 3, 2023|archive-date=March 7, 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150307055531/http://247sports.com/Recruitment/Damar-Hamlin-49558/RecruitInterests|url-status=live}} He selected the Pittsburgh Panthers and played in three games as a freshman in 2016 before suffering an injury and receiving a medical redshirt exception for that year.{{Cite news |last=Batko |first=Brian |date=August 23, 2017 |title=Pat Narduzzi hopeful sophomore Damar Hamlin won't redshirt |work=Pittsburgh Post-Gazette |url=https://www.post-gazette.com/sports/Pitt/2017/08/23/Damar-Hamlin-injury-Pitt-football-redshirt-Pat-Narduzzi-Pittsburgh-Panthers/stories/201708230386 |access-date=January 2, 2023 |archive-date=January 3, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230103040211/https://www.post-gazette.com/sports/Pitt/2017/08/23/Damar-Hamlin-injury-Pitt-football-redshirt-Pat-Narduzzi-Pittsburgh-Panthers/stories/201708230386 |url-status=live }}

As a redshirt freshman playing in his second year in 2017, Hamlin was not back to full health until week three of the football season.{{Cite web |last=Batko |first=Brian |date=August 6, 2018 |title=Damar Hamlin takes charge of Pitt's 'sniper gang' |url=https://www.post-gazette.com/sports/Pitt/2018/08/06/damar-hamlin-pitt-football-sniper-gang-secondary-defense-2018-paris-ford-pat-narduzzi/stories/201808060114 |access-date=January 4, 2023 |website=Pittsburgh Post-Gazette |language=en |archive-date=April 30, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210430032227/https://www.post-gazette.com/sports/Pitt/2018/08/06/damar-hamlin-pitt-football-sniper-gang-secondary-defense-2018-paris-ford-pat-narduzzi/stories/201808060114 |url-status=live }} Playing the safety position, he recorded 41 tackles with one interception in nine games played.{{Cite news |last=Batko |first=Brian |date=August 6, 2018 |title=Damar Hamlin takes charge of Pitt's 'sniper gang' |work=Pittsburgh Post-Gazette |url=https://www.post-gazette.com/sports/Pitt/2018/08/06/damar-hamlin-pitt-football-sniper-gang-secondary-defense-2018-paris-ford-pat-narduzzi/stories/201808060114 |url-status=live |access-date=January 2, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230103040213/https://www.post-gazette.com/sports/Pitt/2018/08/06/damar-hamlin-pitt-football-sniper-gang-secondary-defense-2018-paris-ford-pat-narduzzi/stories/201808060114 |archive-date=January 3, 2023}}

In 2018, Hamlin led the Panthers "sniper gang" secondary with 77 tackles and two interceptions as a redshirt sophomore and was named honorable mention All-Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC).

In 2019, he registered 84 tackles with 10 passes broken up as a redshirt junior.{{Cite news |last=DiPaola |first=Jerry |date=January 15, 2020 |title=Pitt safety Damar Hamlin returning for 5th year |work=Pittsburgh Tribune-Review |url=https://triblive.com/sports/pitt-safety-damar-hamlin-returning-for-fifth-year/ |access-date=January 2, 2023 |archive-date=January 3, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230103040211/https://triblive.com/sports/pitt-safety-damar-hamlin-returning-for-fifth-year/ |url-status=live }}

Going into his final season in 2020, Hamlin was a team captain and was named to the All-ACC second-team after leading the Panthers with 66 tackles and seven passes broken up.{{Cite news |last=Filipcic-Godsey |first=Amanda |date=April 24, 2021 |title=Pitt's Hamlin thrived in final season, ready for NFL |work=The Herald |url=https://www.sharonherald.com/sports/pitts-hamlin-thrived-in-final-season-ready-for-nfl/article_68be3a2e-a4ed-11eb-a734-4b026f23d9b5.html |access-date=January 2, 2023 |archive-date=January 3, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230103040211/https://www.sharonherald.com/sports/pitts-hamlin-thrived-in-final-season-ready-for-nfl/article_68be3a2e-a4ed-11eb-a734-4b026f23d9b5.html |url-status=live }}{{Cite news |last=DiPaola |first=Jerry |date=December 10, 2020 |title=Pitt's Rashad Weaver, Damar Hamlin don't travel to Georgia Tech for final regular-season game |work=Tribune-Review |url=https://triblive.com/sports/pitts-rashad-weaver-damar-hamlin-did-not-travel-to-georgia-tech-for-final-regular-season-ame/ |access-date=January 2, 2023 |archive-date=January 3, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230103040212/https://triblive.com/sports/pitts-rashad-weaver-damar-hamlin-did-not-travel-to-georgia-tech-for-final-regular-season-ame/ |url-status=live }} He earned ACC Co-Defensive Back of the Week honors for his November 21, 2020, game against Virginia Tech.{{Cite web |last=Proia |first=Olivia |date=January 3, 2023 |title=Damar Hamlin: player devoted to family and charity |url=https://www.wkbw.com/sports/buffalo-bills/damar-hamlin-player-devoted-to-family-and-charity |access-date=January 4, 2023 |website=WKBW 7 News Buffalo |language=en |archive-date=January 16, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230116210637/https://www.wkbw.com/sports/buffalo-bills/damar-hamlin-player-devoted-to-family-and-charity |url-status=live }}

Hamlin earned a bachelor's degree in communication from the University of Pittsburgh.{{Cite web |last=McKenna |first=Henry |title=What to know about Bills safety Damar Hamlin |url=https://www.foxsports.com/stories/nfl/what-to-know-about-bills-safety-damar-hamlin |access-date=January 4, 2023 |website=FOX Sports |language=en-US |archive-date=January 4, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230104142254/https://www.foxsports.com/stories/nfl/what-to-know-about-bills-safety-damar-hamlin |url-status=live }}

= College statistics =

class="wikitable" style="text-align:center;"
scope="col" rowspan="2"| Season

!scope="col" rowspan="2"| Team

!scope="col" colspan="5"| Tackles

!scope="col" colspan="6"| Interceptions

!scope="col" colspan="3"| Fumbles

scope="col"| Solo

!scope="col"| Ast

!scope="col"| Cmb

!scope="col"| TfL

!scope="col"| Sck

!scope="col"| PD

!scope="col"| Int

!scope="col"| Yds

!scope="col"| Avg

!scope="col"| Lng

!scope="col"| TD

!scope="col"| FF

!scope="col"| FR

!scope="col"| TD

scope="row"| 2016

!style="{{CollegePrimaryStyle|Pittsburgh Panthers}}"|2016 Pittsburgh Panthers football team

| 4 || 4 || 8 || 0.0 || 0.0 || 0 || 0 || 0 || 0.0 || 0 || 0 || 0 || 0 || 0

scope="row"| 2017

!style="{{CollegePrimaryStyle|Pittsburgh Panthers}}"|2017 Pittsburgh Panthers football team

| 30 || 11 || 41 || 1.0 || 0.0 || 0 || 1 || 5 || 5.0 || 5 || 0 || 0 || 0 || 0

scope="row"| 2018

!style="{{CollegePrimaryStyle|Pittsburgh Panthers}}"|2018 Pittsburgh Panthers football team

| 53 || 23 || 76 || 3.0 || 0.0 || 4 || 2 || 79 || 39.5 || 79 || 0 || 0 || 1 || 0

scope="row"| 2019

!style="{{CollegePrimaryStyle|Pittsburgh Panthers}}"|2019 Pittsburgh Panthers football team

| 60 || 24 || 84 || 2.5 || 0.0 || 10 || 1 || 14 || 14.0 || 14 || 0 || 0 || 0 || 0

scope="row"| 2020

!style="{{CollegePrimaryStyle|Pittsburgh Panthers}}"|2020 Pittsburgh Panthers football team

| 38 || 28 || 66 || 3.5 || 0.0 || 7 || 2 || 4 || 2.0 || 4 || 0 || 0 || 0 || 0

colspan="2"| [https://www.sports-reference.com/cfb/players/damar-hamlin-1.html Career]1859027510.00.021610217.0790010

Professional career

{{NFL predraft

| height ft = 6

| height in = 0 7/8

| weight = 200

| dash = 4.59

| ten split = 1.46

| twenty split = 2.69

| shuttle = 4.40

| cone drill = 6.93

| vertical = 35.0

| broad ft = 9

| broad in = 10

| bench = 18

| arm span = 32 1/4

| hand span = 8 7/8

| wonderlic =

| note = All values from Pro Day{{Cite web |url=https://www.nfl.com/prospects/damar-hamlin/32004841-4d40-1130-e55c-c458b6bff7bf |title=Damar Hamlin Draft and Combine Prospect Profile |website=NFL.com |access-date=November 20, 2021 |archive-date=November 20, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211120093627/https://www.nfl.com/prospects/damar-hamlin/32004841-4d40-1130-e55c-c458b6bff7bf |url-status=live }}{{Cite web |url=https://draftscout.com/dsprofile.php?PlayerId=1017689&DraftYear=2021 |title=Damar Hamlin, Pittsburgh, FS, 2021 NFL Draft Scout, NCAA College Football |website=draftscout.com |access-date=November 20, 2021 |archive-date=November 20, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211120093630/https://draftscout.com/dsprofile.php?PlayerId=1017689&DraftYear=2021 |url-status=live }}{{Cite web |url=https://insider.espn.com/nfl/draft/player/_/id/104875 |title=Damar Hamlin 2021 NFL Draft Profile |website=insider.espn.com |access-date=January 4, 2023 |archive-date=January 4, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230104090929/https://insider.espn.com/nfl/draft/player/_/id/104875 |url-status=live }}

}}

=2021 season=

The Buffalo Bills selected Hamlin in the sixth round with the 212th overall pick of the 2021 NFL draft.{{Cite web |last=Lavoie |first=Dan |date=May 1, 2021 |title=2021 NFL Draft: Buffalo Bills draft Pittsburgh S Damar Hamlin with 212th pick |url=https://www.buffalorumblings.com/2021/5/1/22414751/2021-nfl-draft-buffalo-bills-draft-pittsburgh-s-damar-hamlin-with-212th-pick-news-notes |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211206022558/https://www.buffalorumblings.com/2021/5/1/22414751/2021-nfl-draft-buffalo-bills-draft-pittsburgh-s-damar-hamlin-with-212th-pick-news-notes |archive-date=December 6, 2021 |access-date=December 6, 2021 |website=Buffalo Rumblings |publisher=SB Nation}} He signed his four-year rookie contract with Buffalo on May 21, 2021.{{Cite web |last=Links |first=Zachary |date=May 21, 2021 |title=NFL Draft Pick Signings: 5/21/21 |url=https://www.profootballrumors.com/2021/05/nfl-draft-pick-signings-52121 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210521205826/https://www.profootballrumors.com/2021/05/nfl-draft-pick-signings-52121 |archive-date=May 21, 2021 |access-date=May 21, 2021 |website=Pro Football Rumors}} Hamlin played a reserve role in his first season, tallying two tackles and two pass breakup in 14 games played.

=2022 season=

Hamlin became one of Buffalo's starting safeties in 2022 after Micah Hyde suffered a season-ending neck injury in Week 2.{{Cite web |date=November 2, 2022 |title=Bills game analysis: Damar Hamlin developing into solid starting safety |url=https://chittenango.com/2022/11/bills-game-analysis-damar-hamlin-developing-into-solid-starting-safety/ |access-date=January 1, 2023 |work=Chittenango News |archive-date=January 1, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230101024056/https://chittenango.com/2022/11/bills-game-analysis-damar-hamlin-developing-into-solid-starting-safety/ |url-status=live }} Against the New York Jets in Week 9, Hamlin led the team with 12 tackles and a sack in the 20{{ndash}}17 loss.{{Cite web |last=Fortier |first=Sam |date=January 3, 2023 |title=What to know about Buffalo Bills safety Damar Hamlin |url=https://www.washingtonpost.com/sports/2023/01/03/nfl-damar-hamlin-bills-player/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230103140114/https://www.washingtonpost.com/sports/2023/01/03/nfl-damar-hamlin-bills-player/ |archive-date=January 3, 2023 |access-date=January 3, 2023 |newspaper=The Washington Post}} In Week 13 against the New England Patriots, Hamlin was ejected after an illegal hit on Jakobi Meyers in the 24{{ndash}}10 win.{{Cite web |last=Miller |first=Ryan |date=December 2, 2022 |title=Bills safety Damar Hamlin ejected for hit on Patriots' Jakobi Meyers |url=https://sports.yahoo.com/bills-safety-damar-hamlin-ejected-044028717.html |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230105002900/https://sports.yahoo.com/bills-safety-damar-hamlin-ejected-044028717.html |archive-date=January 5, 2023 |access-date=January 5, 2023 |website=Yahoo! Sports |via=Rochester Democrat and Chronicle}}{{cite web |last1=Williams |first1=Charean |title=Damar Hamlin ejected for illegal hit on Jakobi Meyers |url=https://profootballtalk.nbcsports.com/2022/12/01/damar-hamlin-ejected-for-illegal-hit-on-jakobi-meyers/ |website=ProFootballTalk |access-date=January 5, 2023 |date=December 2, 2022 |archive-date=January 5, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230105002903/https://profootballtalk.nbcsports.com/2022/12/01/damar-hamlin-ejected-for-illegal-hit-on-jakobi-meyers/ |url-status=live }} He was placed on injured reserve on January 6, 2023, after he collapsed during the game against the Cincinnati Bengals.{{cite web |last1=Dimmitt |first1=Zach |title=Bills Officially Place Damar Hamlin on Injured Reserve |url=https://www.si.com/nfl/bills/.amp/news/buffalo-bills-damar-hamlin-injured-reserve-new-england-patriots-roster-moves |website=SI.com |access-date=January 6, 2023 |date=January 6, 2023 |archive-date=January 6, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230106234615/https://www.si.com/nfl/bills/.amp/news/buffalo-bills-damar-hamlin-injured-reserve-new-england-patriots-roster-moves |url-status=live }}

==In-game collapse==

{{See also|2022 NFL season#Damar Hamlin cardiac arrest}}

File:Damar Hamlin Incident.jpg

On January 2, 2023, during a Week 17 Monday Night Football game against the Bengals, Hamlin collapsed on the field at 8:56 p.m. EST after tackling wide receiver Tee Higgins and required immediate emergency medical treatment.{{Cite web |last=Rodriguez |first=Adrianna |date=January 3, 2023 |title=Damar Hamlin was treated with AED and CPR after cardiac arrest: Emergency response, explained |url=https://www.usatoday.com/story/news/health/2023/01/03/damar-hamlin-aed-cpr-treatment-cardiac-arrest/10982553002/ |access-date=January 4, 2023 |website=USA TODAY |language=en-US |archive-date=January 16, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230116210631/https://www.usatoday.com/story/news/health/2023/01/03/damar-hamlin-aed-cpr-treatment-cardiac-arrest/10982553002/ |url-status=live }}

At the start of the play, Higgins caught a pass by Joe Burrow near the 50-yard line and ran downfield while leading with his right shoulder, which collided against Hamlin's chest. As the defender, Hamlin made a tackle by wrapping his arms around Higgins' shoulders and helmet to bring him down to the ground.{{cite web |title=Bills' Damar Hamlin in critical condition after collapse on field |url=https://www.pbs.org/newshour/nation/bills-damar-hamlin-in-critical-condition-after-collapse-on-field |website=PBS |date=January 3, 2023 |access-date=January 3, 2023 |archive-date=January 3, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230103164435/https://www.pbs.org/newshour/nation/bills-damar-hamlin-in-critical-condition-after-collapse-on-field |url-status=live }} Sports commentators described the tackle as seemingly routine{{Cite news |date=January 2, 2023 |title=Buffalo Bills' Damar Hamlin in critical condition after collapse on field |work=CNBC |url=https://www.cnbc.com/2023/01/03/buffalo-bills-damar-hamlin-collapses-on-field-gets-cpr-game-suspended.html |access-date=January 3, 2023 |archive-date=January 3, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230103030238/https://www.cnbc.com/2023/01/03/buffalo-bills-damar-hamlin-collapses-on-field-gets-cpr-game-suspended.html |url-status=live }} while noting the jarring nature of the contact.{{Cite web |last=Maiorana |first=Sal |date=January 2, 2023 |title=Who is Damar Hamlin, Bills player taken in ambulance on Monday Night Football? |url=https://www.democratandchronicle.com/story/sports/football/nfl/bills/2023/01/03/damar-hamlin-injury-monday-night-football-game-suspended/69771970007/ |access-date=January 3, 2023 |website=Democrat and Chronicle |language=en-US |archive-date=January 3, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230103111555/https://www.democratandchronicle.com/story/sports/football/nfl/bills/2023/01/03/damar-hamlin-injury-monday-night-football-game-suspended/69771970007/ |url-status=live }}{{Cite web |last=Farmer |first=Sam |date=January 2, 2023 |title=Bills safety Damar Hamlin in critical condition after receiving CPR on field |url=https://www.latimes.com/sports/story/2023-01-02/bills-safety-damar-hamlin-administered-cpr-after-on-field-hit-vs-bengals |access-date=January 2, 2023 |website=Los Angeles Times |language=en-US |archive-date=January 3, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230103040953/https://www.latimes.com/sports/story/2023-01-02/bills-safety-damar-hamlin-administered-cpr-after-on-field-hit-vs-bengals |url-status=live}} Following the play, Hamlin stood up momentarily before passing out and falling backwards.{{cite news |author1=Belson, Ken |author2=Morgan, Emmanuel |title=Damar Hamlin of Buffalo Bills in Critical Condition After Collapsing During N.F.L. Game |work=The New York Times |date=January 3, 2023 |url=https://www.nytimes.com/2023/01/02/sports/football/damar-hamlin-bills-hit.html |access-date=January 3, 2023 |archive-date=January 3, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230103031621/https://www.nytimes.com/2023/01/02/sports/football/damar-hamlin-bills-hit.html |url-status=live }}

Hamlin remained motionless at midfield while team athletic trainers and paramedics rushed to his side within 10 seconds.{{Cite web |last=Yeung |first=Jessie |date=January 2, 2023 |title=Live updates: NFL star Damar Hamlin in critical condition after Bills-Bengals game |url=https://www.cnn.com/us/live-news/damar-hamlin-collapse-bills-bengals-game-intl-hnk/index.html |access-date=January 2, 2023 |work=CNN |archive-date=January 3, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230103044718/https://www.cnn.com/us/live-news/damar-hamlin-collapse-bills-bengals-game-intl-hnk/index.html |url-status=live }} First responders initiated CPR, automated external defibrillation (AED) and other treatments to Hamlin on the field for 10 minutes.{{Cite web |last1=Planalp |first1=Brian |last2=Danneman |first2=Joe |date=January 2, 2023 |title=Bengals-Bills game suspended, Bills' Damar Hamlin in critical condition |url=https://www.fox19.com/2023/01/03/cpr-defibrillator-used-bills-damar-hamlin-play-suspended/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230103022622/https://www.fox19.com/2023/01/03/cpr-defibrillator-used-bills-damar-hamlin-play-suspended/ |archive-date=January 3, 2023 |access-date=January 2, 2023 |website=Fox19 Now}}{{Cite web |last1=Morgan |first1=Emmanuel |last2=Belson |first2=Ken |date=January 2, 2023 |title=Monday Night Football Game Postponed After Player Collapses on Field |url=https://www.nytimes.com/2023/01/02/sports/football/damar-hamlin-bills-hit.html |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230103031621/https://www.nytimes.com/2023/01/02/sports/football/damar-hamlin-bills-hit.html |archive-date=January 3, 2023 |access-date=January 2, 2023 |website=The New York Times}} Hamlin was eventually administered oxygen and an intravenous solution (IV). An ambulance was brought onto the field about four minutes after his collapse for more assistance. As he was being placed on a stretcher, most of the players from both teams came off the sidelines to kneel or stand on the field near him, visibly upset and emotional about his status.{{Cite web |last=Owen |first=Chris |date=January 3, 2023 |title=Hamlin's Injury Transcends Sports and Proves What's More Important |url=https://wyrk.com/damar-hamlin-injury-transcends-sports/ |access-date=January 4, 2023 |website=106.5 WYRK |language=en |archive-date=January 4, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230104054931/https://wyrk.com/damar-hamlin-injury-transcends-sports/ |url-status=live}}

After being transported by ambulance to the University of Cincinnati Medical Center at 9:23 p.m.{{Cite news |last=Chappell |first=Bill |date=January 3, 2023 |title=The Bills-Bengals game looked like it might resume. Then the players left the field |language=en |work=NPR |url=https://www.npr.org/2023/01/03/1146689495/the-bills-bengals-game-looked-like-it-might-resume-then-the-players-left-the-fie |access-date=January 6, 2023 |archive-date=January 5, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230105085913/https://www.npr.org/2023/01/03/1146689495/the-bills-bengals-game-looked-like-it-might-resume-then-the-players-left-the-fie |url-status=live }} EST,{{Cite web|last1=Sullivan|first1=Tyler|title=NFL postpones Bengals vs. Bills after Buffalo's Damar Hamlin collapses on field during 'Monday Night Football'|url=https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/news/nfl-postpones-bengals-vs-bills-after-buffalos-damar-hamlin-collapses-on-field-during-monday-night-football/live/|work=CBS Sports|date=January 2, 2023|access-date=January 3, 2023|archive-date=January 3, 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230103031900/https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/news/nfl-postpones-bengals-vs-bills-after-buffalos-damar-hamlin-collapses-on-field-during-monday-night-football/live/|url-status=live}}{{Cite news |last1=Belson |first1=Ken |last2=Blinder |first2=Alan |last3=Stein |first3=Robin |date=January 5, 2023 |title='We're Going to Need Everybody': Recordings Captured Response to N.F.L. Crisis |language=en-US |work=The New York Times |url=https://www.nytimes.com/2023/01/05/sports/football/damar-hamlin-response-audio-recording.html |access-date=January 6, 2023 |issn=0362-4331 |archive-date=January 6, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230106072521/https://www.nytimes.com/2023/01/05/sports/football/damar-hamlin-response-audio-recording.html |url-status=live }} he was reported to be in critical condition{{cite web |last1=Planalp |first1=Brian |title=Bengals-Bills game suspended, Bills' Damar Hamlin in critical condition |url=https://www.fox19.com/2023/01/03/bengals-bills-game-suspended-bills-damar-hamlin-critical-condition/ |work=WXIX |access-date=January 2, 2023 |date=January 2, 2023 |archive-date=January 3, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230103030503/https://www.fox19.com/2023/01/03/bengals-bills-game-suspended-bills-damar-hamlin-critical-condition/ |url-status=live}} and was intubated. Later that night at 1:48 a.m. local time,{{Cite web |date=January 3, 2023 |title=Damar Hamlin suffered a cardiac arrest following a hit in the game versus the Bengals. His heartbeat was restored on the field and he was transferred to the UC Medical Center for further testing and treatment. He is currently sedated and listed in critical condition. |url=https://twitter.com/BuffaloBills/status/1610166228559052801 |website=Twitter |access-date=January 3, 2023 |archive-date=January 3, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230103140408/https://twitter.com/BuffaloBills/status/1610166228559052801 |url-status=live}} the Bills reported that Hamlin had initially suffered cardiac arrest and his heartbeat was restored on-field.

Hamlin later confirmed that he had an episode of commotio cordis, an extremely rare condition in which cardiac rhythm is disrupted by a blow to the chest during a specific 40-millisecond span in the heart's electrical cycle. The condition is 97% fatal if not treated within three minutes.{{Cite web |last=Florio |first=Mike |date=April 18, 2023 |title=Damar Hamlin: Last year's event was life-changing, but not the end of my story |url=https://profootballtalk.nbcsports.com/2023/04/18/damar-hamlin-last-years-event-was-life-changing-but-not-the-end-of-my-story/ |access-date=June 1, 2023 |website=ProFootballTalk |language=en-US |archive-date=April 23, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230423041914/https://profootballtalk.nbcsports.com/2023/04/18/damar-hamlin-last-years-event-was-life-changing-but-not-the-end-of-my-story/ |url-status=live }}{{Cite web |last=Parrino |first=Matt |date=April 18, 2023 |title=Damar Hamlin suffered Commotio Cordis after collision, says heart is still in the game |url=https://www.syracuse.com/buffalo-bills/2023/04/bills-damar-hamlin-suffered-commotio-cordis-after-collision-says-heart-is-still-in-the-game.html |access-date=April 18, 2023 |website=syracuse |language=en |archive-date=April 18, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230418205658/https://www.syracuse.com/buffalo-bills/2023/04/bills-damar-hamlin-suffered-commotio-cordis-after-collision-says-heart-is-still-in-the-game.html |url-status=live }}{{Cite journal |last=Link |first=Mark S. |date=April 1, 2012 |title=Commotio Cordis: Ventricular Fibrillation Triggered by Chest Impact–Induced Abnormalities in Repolarization |journal=Circulation: Arrhythmia and Electrophysiology |volume=5 |issue=2 |pages=425–432 |doi=10.1161/CIRCEP.111.962712 |pmid=22511659 |doi-access=free}}{{cite journal |last1=Palacio |first1=Luis E. |last2=Link |first2=Mark S. |date=March 2009 |title=Commotio Cordis |journal=Sports Health: A Multidisciplinary Approach |volume=1 |issue=2 |pages=174–179 |doi=10.1177/1941738108330972 |issn=1941-7381 |pmc=3445066 |pmid=23015869}}

==Recovery==

On January 3, Hamlin remained at the University of Cincinnati Academic Health Center while sedated and on a ventilator. According to his uncle Dorrian Glen, Hamlin was placed on his stomach to help take the pressure off his lungs. He also stated that Hamlin's condition was "trending upwards".{{Cite web |last=Planalp |first=Brian |date=January 3, 2023 |title=Damar Hamlin 'trending upwards' in Cincinnati, uncle says |url=https://www.fox19.com/2023/01/04/damar-hamlin-trending-upwards-uc-medical-center-uncle-says/ |access-date=January 4, 2023 |website=FOX19 |language=en |archive-date=January 4, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230104055018/https://www.fox19.com/2023/01/04/damar-hamlin-trending-upwards-uc-medical-center-uncle-says/ |url-status=live}}{{Cite web |last1=Broaddus |first1=Adrienne |last2=Wolfe |first2=Elizabeth |date=January 4, 2023 |title=Damar Hamlin's doctors are working to get him breathing without a ventilator after his mid-game cardiac arrest left him in critical condition |url=https://www.cnn.com/2023/01/04/football/damar-hamlin-collapse-bills-status-wednesday/index.html |access-date=January 4, 2023 |website=CNN |language=en |archive-date=January 4, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230104120842/https://www.cnn.com/2023/01/04/football/damar-hamlin-collapse-bills-status-wednesday/index.html |url-status=live}}

On January 5, Bills cornerback Kaiir Elam said that Hamlin was awake and doing better. The same day, the Bills released a statement, saying, "Damar has shown remarkable improvement over the past 24 hours" and "while still critically ill, he has demonstrated that he appears to be neurologically intact. His lungs continue to heal and he is making steady progress."

Trauma surgeon Timothy Pritts said Hamlin was able to communicate by writing on paper or by nodding and shaking his head, since he still had a breathing tube.{{Cite news |last1=Radnofsky |first1=Louise |last2=Beaton |first2=Andrew |date=January 5, 2023 |title='Did We Win?': Damar Hamlin Awake and Improving After Collapse During NFL Game |language=en-US |work=Wall Street Journal |url=https://www.wsj.com/articles/damar-hamlin-update-bills-nfl-injury-awake-11672934193 |access-date=January 5, 2023 |issn=0099-9660 |archive-date=January 5, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230105204515/https://www.wsj.com/articles/damar-hamlin-update-bills-nfl-injury-awake-11672934193 |url-status=live}} When Hamlin woke up, he was able to follow commands, had full control and feeling in his extremities,{{Cite web |date=January 5, 2023 |title=Damar Hamlin's first question after waking up was 'did we win?' |url=https://wnynewsnow.com/2023/01/05/damar-hamlins-first-question-after-waking-up-was-did-we-win/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230106013012/https://wnynewsnow.com/2023/01/05/damar-hamlins-first-question-after-waking-up-was-did-we-win/ |archive-date=January 6, 2023 |access-date=January 6, 2023 |website=WNY News Now |language=en}} and asked who won Monday night's football game by communicating in writing on a clipboard.{{Cite news|last=Duke|first=Adam|date=January 5, 2023|title=Bills CB: Damar Hamlin awake at hospital|work=WIVB|url=https://www.wivb.com/sports/buffalo-bills/bills-cb-damar-hamlin-awake-at-hospital/|access-date=January 5, 2023|archive-date=January 5, 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230105155139/https://www.wivb.com/sports/buffalo-bills/bills-cb-damar-hamlin-awake-at-hospital/?utm_source=t.co&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=socialflow|url-status=live}} The doctor said significant progress was still needed, but "this marks a really good turning point in his ongoing care."

On January 6, Hamlin was able to breathe on his own, at which point his breathing tube was removed, allowing him to speak. Later that day, he made a brief video call by FaceTime to a Bills team meeting.{{Cite web |last=Sostek |first=Dan |date=January 6, 2023 |title=Damar Hamlin surprises Buffalo Bills teammates with Zoom call: here's what he said, did |url=https://www.pennlive.com/sports/2023/01/damar-hamlin-surprises-buffalo-bills-teammate-with-zoom-call-heres-what-he-said-did.html |access-date=January 7, 2023 |website=PennLive |language=en |archive-date=January 7, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230107000912/https://www.pennlive.com/sports/2023/01/damar-hamlin-surprises-buffalo-bills-teammate-with-zoom-call-heres-what-he-said-did.html |url-status=live}}{{Cite web |last1=Vales |first1=Leinz |last2=Vogt |first2=Adrienne |last3=Meyer |first3=Matt |last4=Powell |first4=Tori B. |date=January 6, 2023 |title=Jan. 6 2023 news on NFL star Damar Hamlin's condition |url=https://www.cnn.com/us/live-news/damar-hamlin-buffalo-bills-update-01-06-23/index.html |access-date=January 7, 2023 |website=CNN |language=en |archive-date=January 7, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230107042951/https://www.cnn.com/us/live-news/damar-hamlin-buffalo-bills-update-01-06-23/index.html |url-status=live}} The next day, Hamlin made his first public comments since his cardiac arrest through social media, stating that he was thankful for the love he has received and asked for continued prayers for a "long road" ahead.{{cite web |last1=Morik |first1=Ryan |title=Damar Hamlin makes first public comments since cardiac arrest: 'The love has been overwhelming' |url=https://www.foxnews.com/sports/damar-hamlin-makes-first-public-comments-cardiac-arrest-love-overwhelming |website=Fox News |date=January 7, 2023 |access-date=January 7, 2023 |archive-date=January 7, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230107234613/https://www.foxnews.com/sports/damar-hamlin-makes-first-public-comments-cardiac-arrest-love-overwhelming |url-status=live}}{{cite web |last1=Wolfe |first1=Elizabeth |title='Keep praying for me': Damar Hamlin, breathing on his own, posts on Instagram for the first time since collapse |url=https://www.cnn.com/2023/01/07/sport/damar-hamlin-collapse-bills-status-saturday/index.html |website=CNN |date=January 7, 2023 |access-date=January 7, 2023 |archive-date=January 7, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230107234613/https://www.cnn.com/2023/01/07/sport/damar-hamlin-collapse-bills-status-saturday/index.html |url-status=live}}

On January 9, a week after being admitted to the hospital, Hamlin was discharged from the University of Cincinnati Medical Center so he could return to Buffalo and continue treatment there. He was flown to Buffalo General Medical Center in stable condition,{{Cite web |last=Harris |first=Jon |date=January 9, 2023 |title=Damar Hamlin transferred to Buffalo General Medical Center: 'This is the beginning of the next stage of his recovery' |url=https://buffalonews.com/business/local/damar-hamlin-transferred-to-buffalo-general-medical-center-this-is-the-beginning-of-the-next/article_a8ccbcec-9043-11ed-9c3b-5797e8c7b941.html |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230111024013/https://buffalonews.com/business/local/damar-hamlin-transferred-to-buffalo-general-medical-center-this-is-the-beginning-of-the-next/article_a8ccbcec-9043-11ed-9c3b-5797e8c7b941.html |archive-date=January 11, 2023 |access-date=June 1, 2023 |website=Buffalo News}} with tests done the following day to determine if he could be released. Hamlin said via his Twitter account that he was "not home quite just yet" and "still doing & passing a bunch of tests."{{Cite web |last1=Wire |first1=Coy |last2=Elamroussi |first2=Aya |date=January 10, 2023 |title=Damar Hamlin could be released from a Buffalo hospital in the next day or two |url=https://www.cnn.com/2023/01/10/sport/buffalo-bills-damar-hamlin-recovery-tuesday-spt/index.html |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230111024022/https://www.cnn.com/2023/01/10/sport/buffalo-bills-damar-hamlin-recovery-tuesday-spt/index.html |archive-date=January 11, 2023 |access-date=June 1, 2023 |website=CNN.com}}{{Cite web |last=Owens |first=Jason |date=January 10, 2023 |title=Damar Hamlin remains hospitalized in Buffalo: 'Not home quite just yet' |url=https://sports.yahoo.com/damar-hamlin-remains-hospitalized-in-buffalo-not-home-quite-just-yet-195241903.html |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230111175735/https://sports.yahoo.com/damar-hamlin-remains-hospitalized-in-buffalo-not-home-quite-just-yet-195241903.html |archive-date=January 11, 2023 |access-date=January 11, 2023 |website=Yahoo! Sports |language=en-US}} He was discharged from Buffalo General Medical Center/Gates Vascular Institute two days later, to continue his rehabilitation at home.{{Cite web |last=Cwik |first=Chris |date=January 11, 2023 |title=Damar Hamlin discharged from hospital, cleared to rehab at home and with the Bills |url=https://sports.yahoo.com/damar-hamlin-discharged-from-hospital-cleared-to-rehab-at-home-and-with-the-bills-170154829.html |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230111175735/https://sports.yahoo.com/damar-hamlin-discharged-from-hospital-cleared-to-rehab-at-home-and-with-the-bills-170154829.html |archive-date=January 11, 2023 |access-date=January 11, 2023 |website=Yahoo! Sports |language=en-US}}

A spokesman for the family reported that Hamlin's heart was being monitored and that he was still using additional oxygen.{{Cite web |last=Wawrow |first=John |date=January 20, 2023 |title=Bills' Hamlin faces long recovery, family spokesman tells AP |url=https://apnews.com/article/buffalo-bills-nfl-sports-football-damar-hamlin-7b7d987e7073632f48e3f9ae78f67621 |access-date=June 1, 2023 |website=AP NEWS |language=en |archive-date=April 16, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230416060913/https://apnews.com/article/buffalo-bills-nfl-sports-football-damar-hamlin-7b7d987e7073632f48e3f9ae78f67621 |url-status=live }} Hamlin was able to attend the Bills' Divisional round game against the Bengals as a spectator.{{Cite web |last=Thompson |first=Carolyn |date=January 22, 2023 |title=Bills' Hamlin attends 1st game since collapse, waves to fans |url=https://apnews.com/article/buffalo-bills-cincinnati-bengals-nfl-sports-football-ae41d5baace672bd347e6e146400f11d |access-date=June 1, 2023 |website=AP NEWS |language=en |archive-date=April 14, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230414144214/https://apnews.com/article/buffalo-bills-cincinnati-bengals-nfl-sports-football-ae41d5baace672bd347e6e146400f11d |url-status=live }} This marked Hamlin's first public appearance since the collapse.{{cite news |url=https://www.abc.net.au/news/2023-01-23/buffalo-bills-player-damar-hamlin-attends-first-game-since-colla/101881420 |title=Buffalo Bills player Damar Hamlin attends first game since collapse |newspaper=ABC News |date=January 23, 2023 |access-date=January 25, 2023 |archive-date=January 24, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230124233807/https://www.abc.net.au/news/2023-01-23/buffalo-bills-player-damar-hamlin-attends-first-game-since-colla/101881420 |url-status=live }}

In February 2023, Hamlin made a special on-field appearance at Super Bowl LVII, accompanied by Bills athletic training and UC Health staff members.{{Cite web |date=February 12, 2023 |title=Damar Hamlin makes appearance on field at Super Bowl |url=https://www.fox10phoenix.com/news/damar-hamlin-at-super-bowl-lvii-2023 |access-date=February 24, 2023 |website=FOX 10 Phoenix |language=en-US |agency=Associated Press |archive-date=February 24, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230224204633/https://www.fox10phoenix.com/news/damar-hamlin-at-super-bowl-lvii-2023 |url-status=live }}

The following month, Hamlin met with President Joe Biden at the White House.{{Cite web |last=Henderson |first=Cydney |date=March 31, 2023 |title=Watch: Buffalo Bills safety Damar Hamlin meets President Joe Biden at White House |url=https://www.usatoday.com/story/sports/nfl/bills/2023/03/31/bills-safety-damar-hamlin-meets-president-joe-biden-white-house/11580119002/ |access-date=June 1, 2023 |website=USA TODAY |language=en-US |archive-date=June 6, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230606131933/https://www.usatoday.com/story/sports/nfl/bills/2023/03/31/bills-safety-damar-hamlin-meets-president-joe-biden-white-house/11580119002/ |url-status=live }}{{Cite web |last=McCarriston |first=Shanna |date=March 31, 2023 |title=Bills' Damar Hamlin meets with President Joe Biden, both say it was 'an honor' |url=https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/news/bills-damar-hamlin-meets-with-president-joe-biden-both-say-it-was-an-honor/ |access-date=June 1, 2023 |website=CBSSports.com |language=en |archive-date=June 7, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230607035223/https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/news/bills-damar-hamlin-meets-with-president-joe-biden-both-say-it-was-an-honor/ |url-status=live }} Hamlin was in Washington, D.C. to support the Access to AEDs Act, which would assist schools in obtaining and using automated external defibrillators.{{Cite web |last=Hassan |first=Carma |date=March 29, 2023 |title=This life-saving medical device isn't required at all schools. Damar Hamlin wants to help change that |url=https://www.cnn.com/2023/03/29/health/hamlin-aed-school-bill/index.html |access-date=June 1, 2023 |website=CNN.com |language=en |archive-date=April 18, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230418061945/https://www.cnn.com/2023/03/29/health/hamlin-aed-school-bill/index.html |url-status=live }}{{Cite web |date=March 28, 2023 |title=Access to AEDs Act would support lifesaving response to sudden cardiac arrest |url=https://newsroom.heart.org/news/access-to-aeds-act-would-support-lifesaving-response-to-sudden-cardiac-arrest |access-date=June 1, 2023 |website=American Heart Association |language=en-us |archive-date=June 9, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230609041620/https://newsroom.heart.org/news/access-to-aeds-act-would-support-lifesaving-response-to-sudden-cardiac-arrest |url-status=live }}{{Cite web |last=Kuzydym |first=Stephanie |date=March 29, 2023 |title=Damar Hamlin, families who have lost athletes advocate for bill to fund AEDs, training |url=https://www.courier-journal.com/story/news/2023/03/29/damar-hamlin-families-who-have-lost-athletes-advocate-for-aeds/70037324007/ |access-date=June 1, 2023 |website=The Courier-Journal |language=en-US |archive-date=February 4, 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240204032040/https://www.courier-journal.com/story/news/2023/03/29/damar-hamlin-families-who-have-lost-athletes-advocate-for-aeds/70037324007/ |url-status=live }} The week after, Hamlin attended a CPR seminar being presented by the Carolina Panthers and the American Heart Association in Charlotte.{{Cite web |last=Kaye |first=Mike |date=April 4, 2023 |title=Panthers, American Heart Association team up with Damar Hamlin for CPR training event |url=https://www.charlotteobserver.com/sports/nfl/carolina-panthers/article273913660.html |access-date=June 1, 2023 |website=Charlotte Observer |archive-date=April 4, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230404045212/https://www.charlotteobserver.com/sports/nfl/carolina-panthers/article273913660.html |url-status=live }}{{Cite web |last=Stone |first=Augusta |date=April 3, 2023 |title=Damar Hamlin, American Heart Association join Panthers for CPR training event |url=https://www.panthers.com/news/damar-hamlin-american-heart-association-join-panthers-for-cpr-training-event |access-date=June 1, 2023 |website=Panthers.com |language=en-US |archive-date=June 1, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230601000549/https://www.panthers.com/news/damar-hamlin-american-heart-association-join-panthers-for-cpr-training-event |url-status=live }}

On April 18, 2023, Buffalo Bills general manager Brandon Beane stated that Hamlin was fully cleared to return to the NFL.{{Cite web |last=White |first=Alec |date=April 18, 2023 |title=Bills safety Damar Hamlin 'fully cleared' for football activities |url=https://www.buffalobills.com/news/bills-safety-damar-hamlin-fully-cleared-for-football-activities |access-date=June 1, 2023 |website=BuffaloBills.com |language=en-US |archive-date=June 1, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230601154513/https://www.buffalobills.com/news/bills-safety-damar-hamlin-fully-cleared-for-football-activities |url-status=live }} That same day, Hamlin announced his intention to continue playing football.{{Cite web |date=April 18, 2023 |title=Damar Hamlin 'Fully Cleared' To Play, Reveals Commotio Cordis Diagnosis |url=https://www.tmz.com/2023/04/18/damar-hamlin-fully-cleared-football-career-bills-general-manager-brandon-beane/ |access-date=April 18, 2023 |website=TMZ |language=en |archive-date=April 18, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230418155002/https://www.tmz.com/2023/04/18/damar-hamlin-fully-cleared-football-career-bills-general-manager-brandon-beane/ |url-status=live }}

==Reactions==

File:Love for Damar.jpg]]

Following the collapse, numerous NFL players and teams quickly offered their support and prayers on social media.{{Cite web |date=January 3, 2023 |title=NFL, sports world reaction to injury to Bills' Damar Hamlin |url=https://apnews.com/article/buffalo-bills-arizona-cardinals-cincinnati-bengals-sports-nfl-football-e227aec54c7cafcc1a57018f0f81517e |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230103064846/https://apnews.com/article/buffalo-bills-arizona-cardinals-cincinnati-bengals-sports-nfl-football-e227aec54c7cafcc1a57018f0f81517e |archive-date=January 3, 2023 |access-date=January 3, 2023 |website=AP News}} The following day, all 32 NFL teams changed their profile pictures on Twitter to a picture of Hamlin's jersey and text that reads "Pray For Damar".{{Cite web |last=Audilet |first=Matt |date=January 3, 2023 |title=Look: Every NFL Team Has 3-Word Message On Tuesday |url=https://thespun.com/more/top-stories/look-every-nfl-team-has-3-word-message-on-tuesday |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230103212047/https://thespun.com/more/top-stories/look-every-nfl-team-has-3-word-message-on-tuesday |archive-date=January 3, 2023 |access-date=January 3, 2023 |website=The Spun}}{{Cite news |last=Forde |first=Mitchell |date=January 3, 2023 |title=Look: NFL Teams Unite To Spread Powerful Message For Damar Hamlin |url=https://athlonsports.com/nfl/look-nfl-teams-unite-to-spread-powerful-message-for-damar-hamlin |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230103212049/https://athlonsports.com/nfl/look-nfl-teams-unite-to-spread-powerful-message-for-damar-hamlin |archive-date=January 3, 2023 |access-date=January 3, 2023 |newspaper=Athlonsports.com | Expert Predictions, Picks, and Previews}} Tee Higgins offered his condolences to Hamlin's family, as did Cincinnati Bengals wide receiver Ja'Marr Chase. Buffalo Bills quarterback Josh Allen urged people, "Please pray for our brother."{{cite tweet|last=Allen|first=Josh|user=JoshAllenQB|author-link=Josh Allen|number=1610128591458652160|title=Please pray for our brother.|access-date=January 6, 2023}}{{Cite web |last=Arend |first=Alek |date=January 2, 2023 |title=Josh Allen Has 5-Word Message For The NFL World Tonight |url=https://www.msn.com/en-us/sports/nfl/josh-allen-has-5-word-message-for-the-nfl-world-tonight/ar-AA15TwCm?li=BBnb7Kz |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230103164055/https://www.msn.com/en-us/sports/nfl/josh-allen-has-5-word-message-for-the-nfl-world-tonight/ar-AA15TwCm?li=BBnb7Kz |archive-date=January 3, 2023 |access-date=January 3, 2023 |website=MSN.com}} Retired ice hockey player Chris Pronger, who had also experienced a commotio cordis-caused cardiac arrest during his career, wished for Hamlin to have a full recovery.{{Cite web |url=https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/news/former-nhl-defenseman-chris-pronger-sends-well-wishes-to-bills-damar-hamlin/ |title=Former NHL defenseman Chris Pronger sends well wishes to Bills' Damar Hamlin |date=January 5, 2023 |access-date=August 26, 2023 |archive-date=August 26, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230826172518/https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/news/former-nhl-defenseman-chris-pronger-sends-well-wishes-to-bills-damar-hamlin/ |url-status=live }}

Fans began gathering outside the University of Cincinnati Academic Health Center following his collapse. Hours after the incident, the lights on Paycor Stadium, the location of the game, were lit blue in honor of Hamlin{{Cite web |url=https://theathletic.com/live-blogs/buffalo-bills-cincinnati-bengals/suynCrMCmQKC/ |title=Bills vs. Bengals game postponed, Damar Hamlin in critical condition following collapse |date=January 2, 2023 |work=The Athletic |access-date=January 2, 2023 |archive-date=January 2, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230102030707/https://theathletic.com/live-blogs/buffalo-bills-cincinnati-bengals/suynCrMCmQKC/ |url-status=live}} along with the lights on Fifth Third Bank's headquarters on Fountain Square in downtown Cincinnati.{{Cite web |date=January 3, 2023 |title=Blaze of blue lights in Downtown Cincinnati for Damar Hamlin, Bills |url=https://www.fox19.com/2023/01/03/blaze-blue-lights-downtown-cincinnati-damar-hamlin-bills/ |access-date=January 3, 2023 |website=FOX19 |language=en |archive-date=January 3, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230103162200/https://www.fox19.com/2023/01/03/blaze-blue-lights-downtown-cincinnati-damar-hamlin-bills/ |url-status=live }} Niagara Falls was illuminated in blue on the evening of January 3 in support of Hamlin.{{Cite magazine |last=Maglioccheti |first=Geoff |date=January 3, 2023 |title=Niagara Falls To Feature 'Illuminated' Tribute to Bills DB Damar Hamlin |url=https://www.si.com/nfl/bills/news/buffalo-bills-damar-hamlin-injury-tribute-niagara-falls-ontario-canada |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230103194010/https://www.si.com/nfl/bills/news/buffalo-bills-damar-hamlin-injury-tribute-niagara-falls-ontario-canada |archive-date=January 3, 2023 |access-date=February 28, 2023 |magazine=Sports Illustrated}}

Shortly after the incident, there was an increase in rhetoric and disinformation from well-known anti-vaxxers, including Charlie Kirk and Drew Pinsky, making unfounded claims about Hamlin's cardiac arrest and COVID-19 vaccines.{{Cite magazine |last=Ecarma |first=Caleb |date=January 3, 2023 |title=Right-Wingers Are Exploiting Damar Hamlin's Medical Emergency to Push Anti-Vax Conspiracies |url=https://www.vanityfair.com/news/2023/01/damar-hamlin-anti-vax-conspiracies |access-date=January 4, 2023 |magazine=Vanity Fair |language=en-US |archive-date=January 4, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230104002521/https://www.vanityfair.com/news/2023/01/damar-hamlin-anti-vax-conspiracies |url-status=live}}{{Cite web |last=Payton |first=L'oreal Thompson |date=January 3, 2023 |title=Blaming Damar Hamlin's cardiac arrest on the COVID vaccine is "wildly and irresponsibly speculative," says expert |url=https://fortune.com/well/2023/01/03/damar-hamlin-cardiac-arrest-covid-vaccine/ |access-date=January 5, 2023 |website=Fortune |language=en |archive-date=January 16, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230116203929/https://fortune.com/well/2023/01/03/damar-hamlin-cardiac-arrest-covid-vaccine/ |url-status=live}}{{Cite web |last=Gayathri |date=January 9, 2023 |title=False: Damar Hamlin collapsed due to COVID-19 vaccine poisoning. |url=https://www.logicallyfacts.com/en/fact-check/false-damar-hamlin-collapsed-due-to-covid-19-vaccine-poisoning |access-date=February 7, 2023 |website=Logically |language=en-gb |archive-date=February 4, 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240204032041/https://www.logicallyfacts.com/en/fact-check/false-damar-hamlin-collapsed-due-to-covid-19-vaccine-poisoning |url-status=live }}{{Cite web |last=Reiner |first=Jonathan |date=January 12, 2023 |title=Opinion: Stop using Hamlin's cardiac arrest for the anti-vax agenda |url=https://www.cnn.com/2023/01/12/opinions/damar-hamlin-vaccine-misinformation-reiner/index.html |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230113204151/https://www.cnn.com/2023/01/12/opinions/damar-hamlin-vaccine-misinformation-reiner/index.html |archive-date=January 13, 2023 |access-date=January 13, 2023 |website=CNN.com |language=en}}

The Bills dedicated their week 18 January 8, 2023, game, against the New England Patriots, to Hamlin.{{Cite web |date=January 9, 2023 |title=Bills win for Hamlin and eliminate Patriots from playoffs |url=https://www.espn.com/nfl/game/_/gameId/401437949 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230709185046/https://www.espn.com/nfl/game/_/gameId/401437949 |archive-date=July 9, 2023 |access-date=July 9, 2023 |website=ESPN.com|agency=Associated Press}} The opening kickoff of the game, shortly after a showing of support for Hamlin from both the organization and fans, would be returned by Nyheim Hines for a touchdown for the Bills.{{Cite web |date=January 8, 2023 |title=Bills RB Nyheim Hines returns opening kickoff 96 yards for stunning TD in win over Patriots |url=https://www.nfl.com/news/bills-running-back-nyheim-hines-returns-opening-kickoff-96-yards-for-stunning-td |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230714233927/https://www.nfl.com/news/bills-running-back-nyheim-hines-returns-opening-kickoff-96-yards-for-stunning-td |archive-date=July 14, 2023 |access-date=July 9, 2023 |website=NFL}} The Bills 35–23 victory would also eliminate the rival Patriots from playoff contention.

==Awards==

On May 15, 2023, Hamlin received the George Halas Award that is given annually by the Pro Football Writers of America to the NFL player, coach, or staff member who overcomes the most adversity to succeed.{{Cite web |date=May 15, 2023 |title=Bills' Damar Hamlin named 2023 George Halas Award winner |url=https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/37656259/bills-damar-hamlin-named-2023-george-halas-award-winner |access-date=May 16, 2023 |website=ESPN.com |agency=Reuters |archive-date=May 15, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230515234720/https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/37656259/bills-damar-hamlin-named-2023-george-halas-award-winner |url-status=live }} On July 12, 2023, Hamlin was honored to present the Pat Tillman Award to the Buffalo Bills training staff during the ESPY awards ceremony. It was an emotional moment for Hamlin, the staff, and his fans, who posted it on social media.{{Cite news |last=Speakman |first=Kimberlee |date=July 12, 2023 |title=Damar Hamlin Tears Up as He Honors the First Responders Who Saved His Life at ESPYS: 'It's a Blessing' |language=en |work=Peoplemag |url=https://people.com/2023-espy-awards-damar-hamlin-honors-first-responders-who-saved-his-life-7560511 |access-date=July 13, 2023 |archive-date=July 13, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230713115142/https://people.com/2023-espy-awards-damar-hamlin-honors-first-responders-who-saved-his-life-7560511 |url-status=live }}

=2023 season=

On August 12, 2023, Hamlin played his first NFL snap since his cardiac arrest in the Bills' preseason opener against the Las Vegas Raiders.{{cite web |last1=Dotson |first1=Kevin |title=Damar Hamlin plays in first NFL game since cardiac arrest |url=https://www.cnn.com/2023/08/13/sport/damar-hamlin-nfl-first-game-spt-intl/index.html |website=CNN.com |date=August 13, 2023 |access-date=September 18, 2023 |archive-date=September 11, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230911144000/https://www.cnn.com/2023/08/13/sport/damar-hamlin-nfl-first-game-spt-intl/index.html |url-status=live }} After playing in all three preseason contests, Hamlin was a healthy scratch for the first three games of the season.{{cite web |last1=Alper |first1=Josh |title=Report: Damar Hamlin inactive again for Bills |url=https://www.nbcsports.com/nfl/profootballtalk/rumor-mill/news/report-damar-hamlin-inactive-again-for-bills |website=NBCSports.com |date=September 17, 2023 |access-date=September 18, 2023 |archive-date=September 17, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230917194136/https://www.nbcsports.com/nfl/profootballtalk/rumor-mill/news/report-damar-hamlin-inactive-again-for-bills |url-status=live }} On October 1, he was activated for the first time since his cardiac arrest in week four against the Miami Dolphins, serving as a backup after Jordan Poyer was ruled out due to an injury.{{Cite web |last1=Martinez |first1=Gina |last2=Breen |first2=Kerry |date=October 1, 2023 |title=Damar Hamlin plays in first regular-season NFL game since cardiac arrest |url=https://www.cbsnews.com/news/damar-hamlin-active-first-game-since-cardiac-arrest-buffalo-bills-nfl/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231002051444/https://www.cbsnews.com/news/damar-hamlin-active-first-game-since-cardiac-arrest-buffalo-bills-nfl/ |archive-date=October 2, 2023 |access-date=October 2, 2023 |website=CBS News |language=en-US}} He played a total of 18 snaps on the night, all on special teams.{{cite web |title='Unbelievable miracle': Damar Hamlin back on the field in Cincinnati |url=https://www.kcra.com/article/damar-hamlin-back-on-the-field-in-cincinnati/45742674 |website=kcra.com |date=November 4, 2023 |access-date=November 6, 2023 |archive-date=November 6, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231106014501/https://www.kcra.com/article/damar-hamlin-back-on-the-field-in-cincinnati/45742674 |url-status=live }} On November 13, Hamlin played his first snaps on defense and made his first tackle since the on-field incident during the fourth quarter of the Bills' week ten game against the Denver Broncos.{{cite web |last1=Owens |first1=Jason |title=Damar Hamlin makes return on defense for Bills, records first tackle since last season's on-field cardiac arrest |url=https://sports.yahoo.com/damar-hamlin-makes-return-on-defense-for-bills-records-first-tackle-since-last-seasons-on-field-cardiac-arrest-052615112.html |website=Yahoo Sports |date=November 14, 2023 |access-date=November 14, 2023 |archive-date=November 14, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231114181510/https://sports.yahoo.com/damar-hamlin-makes-return-on-defense-for-bills-records-first-tackle-since-last-seasons-on-field-cardiac-arrest-052615112.html |url-status=live }}

In the Divisional Round playoff game against the Kansas City Chiefs, Hamlin took a direct snap during a fake punt in the fourth quarter after the Bills noticed the Chiefs only had ten players on the field. On a fourth-and-5, Hamlin carried the ball for two yards but was stopped three yards short, resulting in the Chiefs taking over on downs.{{cite web |last1=Sutelan |first1=Edward |title=Bills fake punt, explained: How Damar Hamlin failed to convert with 11 vs. 10 advantage over Chiefs |url=https://www.sportingnews.com/us/nfl/news/bills-fake-punt-failed-convert-11-10-advantage-chiefs/eb46ad1b2adc1972e13b66c7 |website=sportingnews.com |date=January 22, 2024 |access-date=January 22, 2024 |archive-date=January 22, 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240122045150/https://www.sportingnews.com/us/nfl/news/bills-fake-punt-failed-convert-11-10-advantage-chiefs/eb46ad1b2adc1972e13b66c7 |url-status=live }} Hamlin was the heavy favorite to win AP Comeback Player of the Year, having gone into cardiac arrest the year prior, but was ultimately beat out by Joe Flacco. Both Hamlin and Flacco believed that the former should have won the award.{{Cite web |last=Camras |first=Noah |date=2024-05-14 |title=Damar Hamlin Believes He Deserved NFL Comeback Player of the Year Award |url=https://www.newsweek.com/sports/nfl/bills-damar-hamlin-believes-he-deserved-nfl-comeback-player-year-award-1900626 |access-date=2024-06-05 |website=Newsweek |language=en}}

=2024 season=

After the Bills parted ways with starting safeties Micah Hyde and Jordan Poyer, Hamlin started at safety during the Bills' week one game against the Arizona Cardinals, marking his first start since his cardiac arrest.{{Cite web |last=Shook |first=Nick |date=September 4, 2024 |title=Bills safety Damar Hamlin to start first game since suffering cardiac arrest in January 2023 |url=https://www.nfl.com/news/bills-safety-damar-hamlin-to-start-first-game-since-suffering-cardiac-arrest-in-jan-2023 |access-date=September 4, 2024 |website=NFL.com}}

In Week 3, Hamlin recorded his first career interception in a 47{{ndash}}10 Bills win over the Jacksonville Jaguars.{{cite web | last=Bergman | first=Jeremy | title=Bills safety Damar Hamlin records first career interception in Monday night win over Jaguars | website=NFL.com | date=2024-09-24 | url=https://www.nfl.com/news/bills-safety-damar-hamlin-records-first-career-interception-monday-night-game-jaguars | access-date=2024-10-05}} He was named a first alternate in the 2025 Pro Bowl Games near the end of the season for his play in 2024.{{Cite web |last=Ludwig |first=Karl |date=2025-01-03 |title=Two Former Pitt Stars Earn Pro Bowl Alternate Nods |url=https://pittsburghsportsnow.com/2025/01/03/two-former-pitt-stars-earn-pro-bowl-alternate-nods/ |access-date=2025-01-05 |website=Pittsburgh Sports Now |language=en-US}}

=2025 season=

On March 12, 2025, Hamlin re-signed with the Bills on a one-year, $2 million contract.{{cite web|title=Bills safety Damar Hamlin re-signs with Buffalo on a one-year contract extension|url=https://www.buffalobills.com/news/bills-agree-to-terms-with-s-damar-hamlin-on-one-year-contract-extension|author=White, Alec|website=BuffaloBills.com|date=March 12, 2025}}

NFL career statistics

class="wikitable"

! colspan="2"| Legend

Bold

| Career High

=Regular season=

class="wikitable" style="text-align:center;"
rowspan="2"| Year

! rowspan="2"| Team

! colspan="2"| Games

! colspan="5"| Tackles

! colspan="6"| Interceptions

! colspan="3"| Fumbles

GPGSCmbSoloAstSckTFLPDIntYdsAvgLngTDFFFRTD
2021BUF

| 14 || 0 || 2 || 2 || 0 || 0.0 || 0 || 2 || 0 || 0 || — || 0 || 0 || 0 || 0 || 0

2022BUF

| 15 || 13 || 91 || 63 || 28 || 1.5 || 6 || 2 || 0 || 0 || — || 0 || 0 || 1 || 0 || 0

2023BUF

| 5 || 0 || 2 || 2 || 0 || 0.0 || 0 || 0 || 0 || 0 || — || 0 || 0 || 0 || 0 || 0

2024BUF

| 14 || 14 || 89 || 62 || 27 || 0.0 || 2 || 5 || 2 || 19 || 9.5 || 19 || 0 || 0 || 1 || 0

colspan="2" | [https://www.pro-football-reference.com/players/H/HamlDa00.htm Career]4827184129551.5892199.5190110

=Postseason=

class="wikitable" style="text-align:center;"
rowspan="2"| Year

! rowspan="2"| Team

! colspan="2"| Games

! colspan="5"| Tackles

! colspan="6"| Interceptions

! colspan="3"| Fumbles

GPGSCmbSoloAstSckTFLPDIntYdsAvgLngTDFFFRTD
2021BUF

| 2 || 0 || 1 || 1 || 0 || 0.0 || 0 || 0 || 0 || 0 || 0.0 || 0 || 0 || 0 || 0 || 0

2022BUF

| colspan="16" | Did not play due to injury

2023BUF

| 2 || 0 || 2 || 2 || 0 || 0.0 || 0 || 0 || 0 || 0 || 0.0 || 0 || 0 || 0 || 0 || 0

2024BUF

| 3 || 3 || 15 || 7 || 8 || 1.0 || 2 || 0 || 0 || 0 || 0.0 || 0 || 0 || 1 || 0 || 0

colspan="2"| [https://www.pro-football-reference.com/players/H/HamlDa00.htm Career]73181081.020000.000100

Personal life

File:President Joe Biden meets with Buffalo Bills safety Damar Hamlin on March 30, 2023, in the Oval Office of the White House.jpg in the Oval Office in 2023]]

In addition to his football career, Hamlin is a fashion entrepreneur, having started a fashion line, Chasing Millions, while at the University of Pittsburgh.{{cite news |title=Football Can Wait for Damar Hamlin |last=Gay |first=Jason |date=January 3, 2023 |url=https://www.wsj.com/articles/damar-hamlin-football-buffalo-bills-11672749251 |url-access=subscription |work=The Wall Street Journal |publisher=Dow Jones & Company, Inc. |access-date=January 3, 2023 |quote=Hamlin is an entrepreneur. He launched his own fashion line in college after a series of injuries in his freshman year made him think he needed a backup plan—in case a football career didn't wind up happening for him. Football wound up happening. But Hamlin kept the fashion line, Chasing Millions, which now sells a sweatshirt stitched with the auspicious phrase: LOVE ME B4 THEY ALL DO. |archive-date=January 16, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230116203935/https://www.wsj.com/articles/damar-hamlin-football-buffalo-bills-11672749251 |url-status=live }}

=Charity=

In 2020, Hamlin started organizing annual charity Christmas toy drives in his hometown of McKees Rocks, Pennsylvania.{{Cite news |last=Harrop |first=JoAnne Klimovich |date=December 23, 2021 |title=Buffalo Bills safety Damar Hamlin, former Pitt player, hosts toy drive in McKees Rocks |work=Tribune-Review |url=https://triblive.com/sports/nfl/buffalo-bills-safety-damar-hamlin-former-pitt-player-hosts-toy-drive-in-mckees-rocks/ |access-date=January 2, 2023 |archive-date=January 16, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230116203937/https://triblive.com/sports/nfl/buffalo-bills-safety-damar-hamlin-former-pitt-player-hosts-toy-drive-in-mckees-rocks/ |url-status=live }}{{Cite web |last=Fitzgerald |first=Katherine |date=January 2, 2023 |title=Donations swell for Damar Hamlin's toy drive through his Chasing M's foundation |url=https://buffalonews.com/sports/bills/donations-swell-for-damar-hamlins-toy-drive-through-his-chasing-ms-foundation/article_dd86eac8-8b1d-11ed-b3b0-9f5ff83abc4e.html |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230116203940/https://buffalonews.com/sports/bills/donations-swell-for-damar-hamlins-toy-drive-through-his-chasing-ms-foundation/article_dd86eac8-8b1d-11ed-b3b0-9f5ff83abc4e.html |archive-date=January 16, 2023 |access-date=January 3, 2023 |website=The Buffalo News}} The GoFundMe campaign for his 2020 toy drive had set a goal of $2,500.{{cite web |last1=Warren |first1=Matt |title=NFL community rallying around Damar Hamlin by donating to his toy drive |url=https://www.buffalorumblings.com/2023/1/2/23536609/damar-hamlin-charity-donations-after-mnf-injury-bills-bengals |work=Buffalo Rumblings |publisher=Vox Media |access-date=January 2, 2023 |date=January 2, 2023 |archive-date=January 16, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230116204517/https://www.buffalorumblings.com/2023/1/2/23536609/damar-hamlin-charity-donations-after-mnf-injury-bills-bengals |url-status=live }}

In the hours following his in-game collapse and medical emergency in January 2023, Hamlin's 2020 GoFundMe campaign for the Chasing M's Foundation toy drive received a massive influx of donations from fans and others. Many of the donations had messages of support for Hamlin.{{Cite web |date=January 3, 2023 |title=Fans give millions to Hamlin's toy drive for kids |url=https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/35371863/fans-give-millions-damar-hamlin-toy-drive-kids |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230104220009/https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/35371863/fans-give-millions-damar-hamlin-toy-drive-kids |archive-date=January 4, 2023 |access-date=January 6, 2023 |website=ESPN.com |language=en |agency=Associated Press}}{{Cite web |last=Sackur |first=Lelia |date=January 3, 2023 |title=A toy drive fundraiser set up by Hamlin surged past $3 million overnight |url=https://www.nbcnews.com/news/us-news/damar-hamlin-charity-toy-drive-fans-donate-bills-collapse-rcna63995 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230104133824/https://www.nbcnews.com/news/us-news/damar-hamlin-charity-toy-drive-fans-donate-bills-collapse-rcna63995 |archive-date=January 4, 2023 |access-date=January 6, 2023 |website=NBC News |language=en}} In the days that followed, dozens of NFL players, coaches, and executives donated to the campaign,{{Cite web |last=Baer |first=Jack |date=January 3, 2023 |title=Damar Hamlin's GoFundMe hits $6 million after Bills safety's cardiac arrest on 'Monday Night Football' |url=https://sports.yahoo.com/damar-hamlins-go-fund-me-hits-6-million-after-bills-safetys-cardiac-arrest-on-monday-night-football-231541893.html |access-date=January 4, 2023 |website=sports.yahoo.com |language=en-US |archive-date=January 4, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230104183731/https://sports.yahoo.com/damar-hamlins-go-fund-me-hits-6-million-after-bills-safetys-cardiac-arrest-on-monday-night-football-231541893.html |url-status=live}}{{cite web|url=https://www.wsj.com/articles/damar-hamlin-fundraiser-gofundme-toy-drive-buffalo-bills-11672783358|title=Damar Hamlin's Toy Drive Raises More Than $6.5 Million After His On-Field Collapse|first=Alyssa|last=Lukpat|website=WSJ.com|publisher=Wall Street Journal|date=January 4, 2023|access-date=January 4, 2023|archive-date=January 16, 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230116203932/https://www.wsj.com/articles/damar-hamlin-fundraiser-gofundme-toy-drive-buffalo-bills-11672783358|url-status=live}}{{Cite web |last=Walsh |first=Erin |date=January 5, 2023 |title=Sarah Taylor, Wife of Bengals' Zac Taylor, Leads Effort to Send Cards to Damar Hamlin |url=https://bleacherreport.com/articles/10060715-sarah-taylor-wife-of-bengals-zac-taylor-leads-effort-to-send-cards-to-damar-hamlin |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230116203933/https://bleacherreport.com/articles/10060715-sarah-taylor-wife-of-bengals-zac-taylor-leads-effort-to-send-cards-to-damar-hamlin |archive-date=January 16, 2023 |access-date=January 6, 2023 |website=Bleacher Report |language=en}} which grew from its $2,500 goal amount to over $8.7{{nbsp}}million {{as of|2023|1|12|lc=yes|df=US}}.{{Cite magazine |last=Scott |first=Jelani |date=January 7, 2023 |title='Robert Gronkowski' Donates On-Brand Amount to Damar Hamlin's Charity |url=https://www.si.com/nfl/2023/01/07/robert-gronkowski-donates-on-brand-amount-damar-hamlin-charity |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230128094844/https://www.si.com/nfl/2023/01/07/robert-gronkowski-donates-on-brand-amount-damar-hamlin-charity |archive-date=January 28, 2023 |access-date=February 28, 2023 |magazine=Sports Illustrated}} Chasing M's Foundation later updated their GoFundMe message saying the "fundraiser was initially established to support a toy drive for Damar's community," but was "hopeful about Damar's future involvement in disbursing the incredibly generous contributions." On January 12, The Buffalo News had a detailed story covering the enormous changes facing Chasing M's structure and operations in light of the large donations, including its tax-exempt status and governance.{{Cite web |last=Petro |first=Mike |date=January 11, 2023 |title=Explainer: Damar Hamlin's foundation has much to do after garnering $8.7 million in donations |url=https://buffalonews.com/news/local/explainer-damar-hamlins-foundation-has-much-to-do-after-garnering-8-7-million-in-donations/article_25919114-8df4-11ed-aea5-9f1e943b1e04.html |access-date=January 12, 2023 |website=Buffalo News |language=en |archive-date=January 16, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230116203934/https://buffalonews.com/news/local/explainer-damar-hamlins-foundation-has-much-to-do-after-garnering-8-7-million-in-donations/article_25919114-8df4-11ed-aea5-9f1e943b1e04.html |url-status=live}}

In 2023, Hamlin announced that he and the Chasing M's foundation would fund ten $1,000 scholarships for under-served young people in the Cincinnati area to cover the costs of attending private high school or a local trade school or university. Each of the scholarships were named after a member of the UC medical staff that contributed to Hamlin's recovery. The program is set to run for three years. {{Cite news |last=Chappell |first=Bill |date=2023-11-06 |title=Damar Hamlin funds 10 scholarships in the names of 'heroes' who saved his life |url=https://www.npr.org/2023/11/06/1210879092/damar-hamlin-cincinnati-scholarships |access-date=2025-01-27 |work=NPR |language=en}}

See also

  • Christian Eriksensoccer player who suffered a similar cardiac arrest during a competition
  • Kevin Everett - another former Bills player who suffered a life threatening injury during a game, eventually making a recovery

References

{{Reflist}}