Buffalo Bills safety Damar Hamlin has become a symbol of resilience and determination, after his remarkable comeback story in the NFL. After suffering a life-threatening injury during a game against the Cincinnati Bengals in 2023, Hamlin’s journey from the brink of death to becoming a key contributor for the Bills is nothing short of inspiring.
As Buffalo prepares to take on the Kansas City Chiefs in the AFC Championship Game, many are wondering: Will Hamlin take the field today?
Hamlin’s presence has been a constant source of motivation for the Bills throughout their 13-4 season. While his recovery and return to the NFL have already made headlines, the stakes are now higher than ever. With a trip to the Super Bowl on the line, fans are eager to see if Hamlin will play a pivotal role in this critical matchup, where every play will be a crucial one.
Revisiting the Incident That Changed Hamlin’s Life
Hamlin’s NFL career took a harrowing turn during Week 17 of the 2022-23 NFL season when the Bills faced the Bengals. A routine tackle turned disastrous as Hamlin collided with Bengals receiver Tee Higgins, taking a direct hit to his chest.
Moments after standing up, Hamlin collapsed on the field, prompting immediate medical attention. The severity of the situation led to the game being suspended as players, coaches, and fans watched in stunned silence.
Medical personnel later revealed that Hamlin had suffered commotio cordis, a rare but potentially fatal condition caused by a sudden impact to the chest that disrupts the heart’s rhythm. The quick response of the Bills’ medical staff, who administered CPR and used an AED, was instrumental in saving his life.
Damar Hamlin sudden collapse and cardiac arrest, on the field on MNF. pic.twitter.com/fCKBE5t6pQ
— Jim Fannon Show 🇨🇦 🇩🇴 (@JimFannonLives) January 3, 2023
Hamlin’s recovery captured the nation’s attention, sparking widespread discussions about player safety and the importance of on-field medical preparedness. His resilience and determination to return to football became a rallying point for the Bills and their fans.
Against all odds, Hamlin not only recovered but reclaimed his spot as a starting safety for the Bills. This season, he recorded 89 tackles, two interceptions, and five passes defended, proving he could perform at an elite level once again.
Off the field, Hamlin’s ordeal has led to significant changes in legislation, including the HEARTS Act, which funds AED programs in schools nationwide.
Will Hamlin Play Today?
Heading into today’s AFC Championship Game against the Chiefs, Hamlin is listed as active. Not only is he expected to play, he’s a starter for the Bills. This season, he has played 79.17% of snaps, which is the second-most of any defender (behind only Christian Benford).
This season, Hamlin has 101 tackles, two interceptions, one sack, one forced fumble, and one fumble recovery. He helped the Bills go 13-4, earn the AFC’s No. 2 seed, and advance to the AFC Championship Game.
He has a knack for game-changing plays, and his presence in the Bills’ secondary will be critical against Patrick Mahomes and Kansas City’s high-powered offense.
The matchup marks a pivotal moment for Buffalo, seeking its first Super Bowl appearance since the early 1990s. For Hamlin, the game represents another milestone in a journey defined by perseverance and an unrelenting desire to make a difference.
Whether his impact comes through a key interception or simply inspiring his teammates, Hamlin’s story continues to transcend the game.
