Buffalo Bills’ Damar Hamlin OK to Play After Suffering Cardiac Arrest
Buffalo Bills safety Damar Hamlin has been cleared to return to the football field after suffering a cardiac arrest during a practice session last year. Hamlin, who was signed as an undrafted free agent by the Bills in 2021, had a promising start to his professional football career before the sudden health scare.
On August 24, 2021, Hamlin collapsed during a training camp practice session and was rushed to a nearby hospital. He was diagnosed with a cardiac arrest and underwent surgery to address the issue. The team released a statement at the time, expressing their concern for Hamlin and wishing him a speedy recovery.
After months of rehabilitation and monitoring, Hamlin has been given the green light to return to the game. The Bills announced on Friday that Hamlin has passed all medical tests and has been cleared to play.
“Damar has worked incredibly hard over the past several months to get back to full health,” said Bills head coach Sean McDermott. “We are thrilled to have him back on the team and look forward to seeing him on the field again.”
Hamlin expressed his gratitude to the team and the medical staff for their support throughout his recovery. “I want to thank the Buffalo Bills organization, my teammates, and the medical staff for all their support during my recovery,” he said in a statement. “I am excited to get back to playing the game I love and contributing to the team.”
Hamlin, a product of the University of Pittsburgh, played in 45 games during his college career and was named to the All-ACC Third Team in 2020. He is expected to provide depth in the safety position for the Bills, who are looking to build on their success from last season and make a push for the Super Bowl.
While Hamlin’s health scare was certainly a scary moment for him and the team, his return to the field is a testament to his determination and the care he received from the medical staff. His return will undoubtedly be a boost for the Bills, who are looking to make a deep playoff run this season.
