In Pittsford, New York, Damar Hamlin experienced a whirlwind of emotions, including trepidation, as he donned his pads for the first training camp practice after the life-altering event he endured seven months ago. During a game, he suffered a cardiac arrest and had to be revived on the field. However, amid the challenges, Hamlin found solace in his unwavering faith in God and himself. The unwavering support from his family and teammates played a significant role in his journey to recovery and gave him the strength to take this crucial step towards resuming his playing career. Reflecting on the momentous occasion, he expressed his joy and gratitude, acknowledging it as one of the most significant milestones in his path to recovery.
Damar Hamlin acknowledged that while he made the decision to return to play, he is contending with a myriad of emotions. He candidly admitted that fear occasionally creeps into his thoughts. However, he emphasized that his faith stands stronger than any fear he may encounter. His conviction is to inspire others by sharing this message with the world, emphasizing that as long as one’s faith outweighs their fear, they can overcome any challenge that comes their way.
After receiving medical clearance in mid-April, Damar Hamlin cautiously eased back into practice during the Buffalo Bills’ spring sessions and the initial four days of training camp, complying with NFL rules that mandated wearing only a helmet and shorts. However, the significance of the first day in pads wasn’t lost on him, as it marked the first time he wore a full football uniform since collapsing on the field during a game against the Cincinnati Bengals on January 2. During that incident, he collapsed after making what seemed like a routine tackle on Bengals receiver Tee Higgins.
Hamlin expressed immense gratitude for being back on the field, describing it as a “superblessed space” where he can pursue his passion once again. He tried to maintain a sense of normalcy despite the extraordinary circumstances he had overcome.
The true sense of normalcy returned to him during a team red-zone running drill, even though tackling was still prohibited. Without hesitation, on his second play, Hamlin fearlessly engaged Damien Harris, demonstrating his eagerness and readiness to fully participate in the game once again.
During the final play of practice, Damar Hamlin showcased his resilience and determination. He skillfully evaded a block and managed to work his way into the backfield, providing crucial assistance to his teammate in stopping tight end Quintin Morris and preventing a potential loss for the team.
Recalling the moment, Hamlin expressed sheer joy and excitement, describing how the contact made him feel truly alive and present on the field. With a wide grin, he emphasized the significance of that moment, stating that it confirmed he was back in action and ready to move forward, one play at a time.
Hamlin, a 25-year-old hailing from the Pittsburgh area, is currently in his third NFL season. After being drafted by the Buffalo Bills in the sixth round of the 2021 draft from Pitt, he initially served as a backup but eventually started 13 games in the previous season due to Micah Hyde’s injury.
This season, Hamlin is competing with Taylor Rapp, a free agent addition in the offseason, for the backup role behind starting safeties Micah Hyde and Jordan Poyer. Despite being new to the team, Rapp is impressed with Hamlin’s resilience and professionalism.
Hamlin’s next challenge lies ahead as the Bills open their preseason schedule on August 12 at home against the Indianapolis Colts. With his determination and talent, Hamlin is geared up to face whatever comes his way as he continues to pursue his NFL career.
Damar Hamlin’s remarkable journey has not gone unnoticed by his teammates and coaches. Taylor Rapp, a new addition to the team, expressed admiration for Hamlin’s determination and ability to bounce back from his late-season ordeal in the previous year. Rapp finds Hamlin’s approach to rehab and his overall demeanor truly inspiring.
Coach Sean McDermott has been cautious in his handling of Hamlin, recognizing the delicate balance of treating him like any other player while being mindful of the challenges he has faced. McDermott stressed the importance of maintaining a sense of normalcy for Hamlin during training camp, while also providing the necessary support to help him succeed.
Before practice, Hamlin shared special moments with his younger brother, Damir, and received warm greetings from the team’s head trainer, Nate Breske. After his news conference, Hamlin took time to engage with fans, signing autographs and interacting with them.
Hamlin’s impact extends beyond the football field, evident in the training camp’s American Heart Association tent, where fans can receive CPR training. Through his Chasing M’s Foundation, Hamlin has been actively promoting CPR training and distributing free automated external defibrillators to sports organizations in Buffalo, Pittsburgh, and Cincinnati.
Damar Hamlin’s journey is a testament to his resilience and the positive influence he has on and off the field. He continues to inspire others through his actions and advocacy, making a difference in the lives of many.
Just before the start of training camp, Damar Hamlin had a poignant reminder of his own journey when NBA star LeBron James’ son, Bronny, experienced cardiac arrest during a basketball workout at Southern California. Fortunately, Bronny was released from the hospital after receiving treatment.
This incident put things into perspective for Hamlin, making him reflect on his own experience and recovery. He reached out to the James family to offer his support, knowing how much their encouragement meant to him during his own healing process. Hamlin assured them that he would be there for Bronny in any way he needs as he navigates his recovery and decides whether to return to his sport.
For Hamlin, football is his chosen path, and he is determined to pursue it as far as it takes him. While some emotions related to his past ordeal may always linger, he accepts them as part of his journey. He views his experience as a challenge and a unique opportunity to overcome adversity and stand for positive things. He sees his life as a “blessed space” with abundant opportunities if he chooses to embrace them.
Despite the challenges he faced, Damar Hamlin remains resolute in his commitment to football and uses his journey as a source of inspiration and strength, not just for himself but also for others who may face similar struggles.
