The Buffalo Bills’ safety, Damar Hamlin, is not expected to be active for the team’s first game against the New York Jets on “Monday Night Football.” Sources revealed this information to ESPN’s Adam Schefter and Robert Griffin III. Hamlin, who is now 25 years old, suffered cardiac arrest during a regular-season game against the Cincinnati Bengals back on January 2. However, he has since recovered and has been participating fully in practices since early June during OTAs after receiving medical clearance. Notably, Hamlin performed well in all three preseason games leading up to the regular season.
A Backup Safety and Special Teams Contributor
As a backup safety and special teams contributor, Hamlin’s exclusion from the game is not surprising. The decision is based on the number of players the team can have active for the game. Additionally, Taylor Rapp, another backup safety who was signed this offseason, had an impressive training camp and preseason. The team also has Cam Lewis, a special teams contributor who can play safety and nickel. With these options available, the coaching staff has made the decision to keep Hamlin on the sidelines for the first game.
Hamlin, who was drafted by the Bills in the sixth round in 2021, serves as a backup to veteran safety Micah Hyde. Although Hyde dealt with a back injury during the week, he participated fully over the last two days of the team’s week and does not have an injury designation for the game. Last season, Hamlin started 13 games in place of Hyde after the veteran suffered a season-ending neck injury. Hamlin’s performance during that time showcased his potential and ability to step up when needed.
At a recent charity event held in Buffalo, Hamlin expressed his gratitude for making the 53-man roster: “Every year, so many people who don’t get the opportunity to make the team that you have to show respect for it when you do and you can never take it for granted because, the NFL, they say it stands for not for long. So, to be able to go through my situation and then be able to come back and still show that I can still do it is super big and it means a lot to me and my family.” Hamlin understands the value of his position in the league and the need to seize every opportunity.
Spreading Education and Training
Throughout the offseason and leading up to the regular season, Hamlin has dedicated his time to organize various events spreading education and training on hands-only CPR. He has also been giving away AEDs (Automated External Defibrillators). Hamlin’s involvement in these initiatives highlights his commitment to making a positive impact off the field as well. His efforts to promote lifesaving techniques and equip communities with necessary resources demonstrate his character and dedication to being a well-rounded athlete.
While Damar Hamlin may not be active for the Buffalo Bills’ first game of the season, his presence and role as a backup safety and special teams contributor remain valuable to the team. Hamlin’s journey thus far has showcased his resilience and determination to succeed. As he continues to develop in his NFL career, he embraces each opportunity with gratitude and uses his platform to promote education and safety in the community. The future looks promising for Hamlin, and it will be exciting to see how he contributes to the Bills’ success moving forward.
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