Less than 6 minutes until the end of the first quarter of the Monday Night Football Game between Buffalo Bills and Cincinnati Bengals, which was broadcast on national TV, Buffalo Bills safety Damar Hamlin, 24, collapsed on the field.
Hamlin fell on the ground after making a tackle on the opposing team receiver Tee Higgins.
Withing seconds, Bills’ team trainers treated him and ambulance arrived less than 5 minutes after Hamlin collapsed. He was administered CPR and was transferred to the (University of Cincinnati) Medical Center for further testing and treatment.
BREAKING: Buffalo Bills Damar Hamlin passes out after making a tackle in the Bills vs Bengals game… A very scary site as both teams are gathered around him in prayer right now.. https://t.co/qVi3bGQ2om
— Matt Couch (@RealMattCouch) January 3, 2023
During the terrifying moment, players cried and prayed on their knees as the game was first suspended and then postponed.
The Bills said in a statement that Hamlin suffered cardiac arrest. The reason why remains unknown.
“His heartbeat was restored on the field and he was transferred to the UC Medical Center for further testing and treatment,” the statement read. “He is currently sedated and listed in critical condition.”
Bills safety Damar Hamlin remained down on the field after a scary hit.
According to the broadcast, medical personnel have administered CPR. pic.twitter.com/JKCWmfzaLT
— ESPN (@espn) January 3, 2023
Prayers and well-wishes came pouring in.
“I’ve never seen anything like it since I’ve been playing,” NFL Executive Vice President of Operations Troy Vincent said. “So, immediately, my player hat went on. How do you resume play after you’ve seen such a traumatic event occur in front of you in real time?”
This incident comes at a time when the NFL remains under intense scrutiny over the amount of protection it offers to the participants in an inherently violent game.
Damar Hamlin is the best of us.
We love you, 3. Praying for you. pic.twitter.com/fYymfFsynp
— Pitt Football (@Pitt_FB) January 3, 2023
A statement from the NFL Players Association said, “The NFLPA and everyone in our community is praying for Damar Hamlin.
“We have been in touch with Bills and Bengals players, and with the NFL. The only thing that matters at this moment is Damar’s health and well-being.”
Our thoughts and prayers are with Hamlin, his family, and the Buffalo Bills.
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Love and Peace