Damar Hamlin is Back as a Starter for the Bills, Feeling Like Himself Again 20 Months After Cardiac Arrest
Damar Hamlin’s cardiac arrest on January 2, 2023, captured national attention and brought the sports community together as everyone hoped for a positive recovery. Hamlin not only overcame this life-threatening event but also returned to play in five games during the following NFL season.
Now, 20 months after the shocking incident, Hamlin is gearing up as a starter for the upcoming season with newfound confidence and happiness.
“I’m feeling confident, man,” Hamlin expressed in a chat with YSL News Sports while promoting Invisalign. “It’s about believing in yourself and knowing who you are. I’m focused on giving my best each day.”
During offseason practices and training camps, coaches noted that Hamlin played with greater freedom as the Bills prepare to face the Arizona Cardinals in Week 1.
“It’s anticipated,” commented Bills head coach Sean McDermott about Hamlin’s relaxed approach. “He’s showing a heightened awareness and urgency compared to last year, getting back into his rhythm. Considering what he has been through, it’s enjoyable to see him having fun on the field. He’s serious about his performance.”
The Bills underwent significant changes in the offseason, with several key players leaving the team, including wide receiver Stefon Diggs, center Mitch Morse, and safeties Jordan Poyer and Micah Hyde.
Despite these departures, Hamlin retains close ties with his old teammates and acknowledges Diggs’ influence in helping him regain the confidence to play again. Hamlin shared with YSL News Sports that he intends to gift Diggs, who now plays for the Houston Texans, a new chain soon.
“I’m really grateful for him. He played a huge role in my journey back,” said Hamlin about Diggs. “Watching him be himself reignited my passion. I will always have a special appreciation for him.”
Due to the roster changes, Hamlin is expected to have a larger role in Buffalo’s defense this year. Coach McDermott confirmed on Wednesday that Hamlin will start in the upcoming game against the Cardinals.
“His focus was clear: ‘I want to earn my position. I want to show I can start and make plays,’” stated Bills general manager Brandon Beane. “That has been his mindset: with Micah and Jordan gone, there are new opportunities, and he wants to remind everyone that he’s still capable.”
Hamlin hasn’t started since the 2022 season, which changed everything. He achieved a personal best with 91 tackles in 2022 and recorded two tackles in a limited capacity last season. This year, however, he is poised for significant playing time on the field.
No matter the role or number of snaps he gets this season, Hamlin is thankful for the chance to play football at a high level as he embarks on his fourth year with the Bills.
“I’ve faced a lot of challenges, and I’m just fortunate to still have this opportunity,” Hamlin expressed. “I remain grounded, knowing there’s a reason I’m still here, and I’m committed to aligning with that purpose, which means everything to me.”
Follow YSL News Sports’ Tyler Dragon on X @TheTylerDragon.