Damar Hamlin, a name that has become synonymous with resilience, courage, and the incredible human spirit, is a professional football player who made headlines in 2023 for all the right and wrong reasons. His story is not just one of athletic prowess but also of survival, determination, and hope. Hamlin’s journey to the NFL, the tragic incident that shook the sports world, and his recovery have captured the attention and hearts of millions. 

As a safety for the Buffalo Bills, Hamlin was on his way to establishing himself as a key player in the NFL before the events of that fateful night on January 2, 2023, during a game against the Cincinnati Bengals. This article delves into the life and career of Damar Hamlin, his rise in the NFL, the harrowing incident on the field, and his remarkable recovery. It also addresses the widespread outpouring of support that followed and what lies ahead for this inspiring athlete.

Early Life and Background

Damar Romeyelle Hamlin was born on March 24, 1998, in McKees Rocks, Pennsylvania, a suburb of Pittsburgh. Growing up in a tough neighborhood, Hamlin learned early on that perseverance and hard work were essential to achieving success. His parents, Mario and Nina Hamlin, instilled in him the importance of education, hard work, and never giving up, even in the face of adversity.

Hamlin attended Central Catholic High School in Pittsburgh, where he played both football and basketball. His athletic ability quickly became apparent, and he earned a reputation as one of the top high school football players in the area. Hamlin’s speed, agility, and football IQ were evident even as a teenager, setting him apart from his peers.

After high school, Hamlin went on to play college football at the University of Pittsburgh. During his time with the Pitt Panthers, Hamlin made a significant impact as a safety. He was known for his hard-hitting style of play and his ability to read the game. Hamlin played four seasons at Pitt, from 2016 to 2019, and accumulated a strong college resume. In his final season, he finished with 67 tackles, 2 interceptions, and 1 sack, showcasing his ability to perform at a high level in a competitive environment.

College Career at the University of Pittsburgh

Damar Hamlin’s college career at the University of Pittsburgh was marked by steady improvement and a growing recognition of his talents as a safety. Initially, he was a reserve player in his freshman season, but he quickly earned a starting spot due to his work ethic and playmaking ability.

Throughout his college years, Hamlin’s reputation as a smart, tough, and reliable player continued to grow. His understanding of the game allowed him to excel in coverage, while his physicality made him a strong presence in the secondary. By his senior year, Hamlin was widely regarded as one of the top safety prospects in college football. He was known for his leadership both on and off the field and became a mentor to younger players, helping them develop their own skills.

Hamlin’s time at Pitt also helped him develop his off-the-field personality. He was an active member of the community, participating in various charitable events and giving back to those less fortunate. This was a pattern that would continue throughout his professional career, demonstrating that Hamlin’s character was just as strong as his physical skills.

Entering the NFL: The Draft and Buffalo Bills

Damar Hamlin entered the 2021 NFL Draft as a promising safety with an impressive college career behind him. However, despite his talent and potential, Hamlin was not selected in the early rounds of the draft. He was ultimately chosen by the Buffalo Bills in the sixth round, with the 212th overall pick.

Although he was not drafted in the first few rounds, Hamlin’s performance in college and his skill set made him a valuable addition to the Bills. His ability to make plays in the secondary, along with his leadership qualities, were qualities the Bills valued highly. Hamlin quickly earned a spot on the Bills’ roster and began his NFL career in 2021.

During his rookie season, Hamlin showed glimpses of his potential. While he wasn’t a starter, he provided depth to the Bills’ secondary and contributed on special teams. His intelligence, work ethic, and versatility made him a valuable player, and his potential was evident to coaches and teammates alike.

In 2022, Hamlin saw more playing time and began to establish himself as a key contributor on the defense. His ability to read the game, combined with his physicality and leadership, made him a player to watch. By the middle of the season, Hamlin was starting games for the Bills, and it was clear that he had become a key figure in their defensive unit.

The Incident: A Life-Altering Moment

On January 2, 2023, the Buffalo Bills were facing off against the Cincinnati Bengals in a highly anticipated Monday Night Football game. It was a game that carried significant playoff implications, with both teams in contention for top spots in the AFC. But during the first quarter of the game, something happened that would change Damar Hamlin’s life and the course of the game forever.

At 8:55 PM ET, with 5:58 left in the first quarter, Hamlin made a routine tackle on Bengals receiver Tee Higgins. After making the tackle, Hamlin stood up, took a few steps, and then collapsed on the field, falling unconscious. The scene was shocking, and the stadium fell silent. Players, coaches, and fans alike were in disbelief, not knowing what had just happened.

Medical personnel rushed to Hamlin’s side, and it quickly became apparent that the situation was dire. Hamlin’s heart had stopped, and he was in cardiac arrest. The game was immediately postponed, and the focus shifted entirely to Hamlin’s health and well-being.

The Medical Emergency and Immediate Response

Hamlin’s collapse on the field sent shockwaves throughout the NFL and beyond. Emergency medical personnel performed CPR on Hamlin for nearly 10 minutes, working to stabilize him before transporting him to the hospital. The situation was incredibly tense, and for several minutes, it was unclear whether Hamlin would survive.

The medical response on the field was swift and effective, and it is widely regarded as one of the key factors in saving Hamlin’s life. The Bills and Bengals organizations, along with the medical staff, acted quickly to ensure that Hamlin received the best possible care.

Hamlin was transported to the University of Cincinnati Medical Center, where doctors and medical staff worked around the clock to stabilize his condition. He was initially listed in critical condition and placed in a medically induced coma to allow his body to recover.

The football world, fans, and sports organizations around the globe held their breath as Hamlin fought for his life. The news of his condition sparked an outpouring of support from fans, athletes, and celebrities, who expressed their prayers, hopes, and well-wishes for the young athlete.

The Recovery: A Triumph of Spirit

Damar Hamlin’s recovery has been nothing short of miraculous. Following his hospitalization, Hamlin showed signs of improvement, and within days, he was able to communicate with doctors and his family. The outpouring of support from around the world played a pivotal role in his mental and emotional recovery.

In the days that followed, Hamlin’s condition improved rapidly, and he was eventually discharged from the hospital. He was able to return to Buffalo, where he continued his rehabilitation and recovery. His resilience, determination, and fighting spirit were evident every step of the way.

By mid-January, Hamlin had been cleared to travel with the Bills to their playoff game against the Miami Dolphins. While he did not play, the emotional moment of seeing Hamlin on the sidelines was a symbol of the incredible progress he had made. His return to the stadium was a reminder of the strength of the human spirit and the power of community support.

Throughout his recovery, Hamlin has continued to express gratitude for the support he received. His foundation, The Chasing M’s Foundation, has been instrumental in raising awareness for CPR training and cardiac health, further demonstrating his commitment to giving back to the community.

What’s Next for Damar Hamlin?

As of now, Damar Hamlin’s future in football remains uncertain. While his recovery has been miraculous, the medical professionals and the Bills organization will work closely with him to determine whether it is safe for him to return to the field. The NFL’s rigorous medical protocols will also play a key role in ensuring that Hamlin’s health and well-being are the top priority.

Regardless of his future as a player, Damar Hamlin has already made a lasting impact on the sports world. His courage, resilience, and inspiring recovery have captivated millions of people, and his story will be remembered for years to come. Hamlin’s determination to overcome adversity and his willingness to use his platform to make a difference will continue to inspire others, both on and off the field.

The Impact on the NFL and Sports Community

Damar Hamlin’s incident highlighted the importance of player safety, medical preparedness, and the need for better cardiac health awareness in sports. The outpouring of support for Hamlin also showcased the strength of the sports community and the bond between athletes, teams, and fans. In response to the incident, the NFL and other sports organizations have pledged to further enhance their medical protocols to ensure that athletes’ health remains a top priority.

FAQs

How is Damar Hamlin doing now after his collapse?

Damar Hamlin has made an incredible recovery since his collapse in 2023. After spending several days in critical condition and undergoing treatment, Hamlin was discharged from the hospital and began his rehabilitation. He has made remarkable progress, with his recovery being supported by the medical community and fans worldwide. As of 2025, Hamlin has returned to the Buffalo Bills, resuming his football career.

What caused Damar Hamlin’s collapse?

Doctors have concluded that commotio cordis caused Damar Hamlin’s collapse. This rare condition occurs when a blow to the chest during a specific moment in the heart’s rhythm can trigger cardiac arrest. In Hamlin’s case, the impact from the tackle occurred at a precise moment in the cardiac cycle, leading to his heart stopping. Commotio cordis is extremely rare but can be fatal without immediate intervention.

What is Damar Hamlin’s current status in the NFL?

Damar Hamlin made a successful return to the Buffalo Bills in the 2023-2024 NFL season. After completing his rehabilitation, he rejoined his teammates and participated in training camp. As of 2025, he is an active player on the Bills’ roster, continuing his professional football career.

What has Damar Hamlin been doing since his recovery?

Since his recovery, Damar Hamlin has become an advocate for heart health awareness and CPR education. He has partnered with medical organizations to promote life-saving techniques, such as CPR, and to raise awareness about the importance of quick response to cardiac emergencies. He also started a charity initiative to support youth sports and healthy living, with a focus on providing resources to underprivileged communities.

Did Damar Hamlin retire after his cardiac arrest?

No, Damar Hamlin did not retire after his cardiac arrest. Despite the severity of the incident, he has made a full recovery and returned to the NFL. His determination to continue his career in football after such a traumatic event has inspired many, and his return to the field is seen as a major milestone in his recovery journey.

In Summary

Damar Hamlin’s journey is one of resilience, courage, and hope. From his humble beginnings in McKees Rocks to becoming an NFL player, Hamlin has shown that determination and hard work can lead to incredible success. His fight for life on that fateful night in January 2023 touched the hearts of millions, and his recovery has been a beacon of hope for people around the world.

Whether or not Hamlin returns to the field, his legacy as a symbol of strength and perseverance is already solidified. His story will inspire future generations of athletes and fans alike, and his impact will be felt for years to come. The world is rooting for Damar Hamlin, and whatever comes next for him, one thing is certain: his story is far from over.

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