Damar Hamlin has returned to the football field five months after he experienced a terrifying cardiac arrest.
The Buffalo Bills player had suffered a health crisis during a Monday Night Football game against the Cincinnati Bengals, promptly receiving life-saving CPR from an assistant athletic trainer. Despite getting clearance from doctors to return to playing football last month, his coach has revealed that the 25-year-old is still taking things “one day at a time” as he continues to observe his progress.
The Buffalo Bills Are Taking Damar Hamlin’s Recovery Slowly
Although he did not participate in team sessions, Hamlin was seen stretching and doing individual drills on Tuesday at the Buffalo Bills’ Organized Team Activities (OTAs). Just before he was seen out on the practice field, Sean McDermott — the Bills’ head coach — had stated during a media briefing in the day:
“We’re just going to continue to take it one day at a time and support Damar in every way possible.”
We’re live with Coach McDermott as he meets with the media before practice at One Bills Drive.#GoBills | #BillsMafia https://t.co/W1cNbc5P9e
— Buffalo Bills (@BuffaloBills) May 23, 2023
He even mentioned that the safety was “in the building working” and not practicing with his other team members— this was before he was sighted on the field. McDermott’s speech was shared via Twitter, along with the write-up:
“We’re live with Coach McDermott as he meets with the media before practice at One Bills Drive. #GoBills | #BillsDrive.”
The update received hundreds of likes, and a few comments, with this netizen claiming, “Need him. Dolphins’ best chance at winning the division is McDermott making decisions.”
Following his April 18 clearance, Hamlin told his fans and football lovers that he planned to return soon. Per The Blast, he had written, “This event was life-changing, but it’s not the end of my story. I’m here to announce that I plan on returning to the NFL.”
The announcement unexpectedly birthed a mixed response, with some celebrating his impending return and others worrying about the toll his comeback would take on his health.
“Don’t rush any recovery. Nothing is worth more than your well-being- not even millions of dollars or pressure from fans and others. God bless. Peace,” one fan commented. Another concerned person noted, “The season is still months away. I’m sure he will take it easy at first and converse with his training and medical staff.”
A third fan typed, “As a fellow member of the Cardiac Club, good luck! My thoughts are with you!” and a fourth queried, “Can you wear a steel chest protector, please? I’II am worried about you, but I wish you the best!”
Instagram | Damar HamlinOn the flip side, one netizen penned, “You are truly amazing, and I wish you nothing but success,” as another chimed, “You go, young man! You are truly a miracle story! Go and do great things! Gods got you!” “Congrats. Thoughts and prayers to you and your continued success. God bless,” another person dropped.
The Central Catholic High School Alum Was Honored By The NFL
The National Football League honored Hamlin and the fantastic medical team that saved his life ahead of this year’s Super Bowl. At the time, Bills legend Jim Kelly and “Abbott Elementary” actress Sheryl Lee Ralph had asked the medical staff of the Buffalo Bills and the Cincinnati Bengals to join them on stage before they called for the NFL pro to join them.
Upon taking over the mic, he started his speech with an appreciation to “God for even being here.” He highlighted his fascination that his experience could inspire individuals “across the country and the world” to spread love, pray, and “keep fighting no matter the circumstances.” Hamlin then stated:
“Sudden cardiac arrest was nothing I would’ve ever chosen to be a part of my story. But that’s because sometimes, our own visions are too small. My vision was about playing in the NFL and being the best player I could be. But God’s plan was to have a purpose greater than any game in this world.”
After admitting he had a long road of recovery ahead, Hamlin revealed that it would be “a lot easier” for people to face their “fears when you know your purpose.” He rounded up by expressing his gratitude to the team on stage with him and pulled them in for a sweet group hug.
