Update as of Jan. 7 at 5 p.m. EST:
For the first time, Damar has addressed fans, thanking them for their prayers during this time.
With a picture on Instagram, he also included this caption: “When you put real love out into the world it comes back to you 3x’s as much. The Love has been overwhelming, but I’m thankful for every single person that prayed for me and reached out.”
HUGE update as of 10:15 a.m. EST:
This is amazing: For the first time, #Bills S Damar Hamlin is addressing the team via Facetime. The breathing tube is out, and he’s spent the morning speaking to various teammates on Facetime. Now, he’s delivering a message to the entire group, I’m told.
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) January 6, 2023
Update as of 10:45 a.m. EST (Thursday):
#Bills S Damar Hamlin opened his eyes last night and is responsive. Truly incredible. One thing that's very clear from speaking to those close to him: They are endlessly appreciative of the medical care given to Hamlin on the field immediately, then over the last 72 hours.
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) January 5, 2023
HAMLIN UPDATE. Awesome update from the @BuffaloBills #DamarHamlin pic.twitter.com/9ix8iLaGuf
— Josh Benson (@WFLAJosh) January 5, 2023
Update as of 7:25 p.m. EST (Tuesday):
Just spoke with Damar Hamlin’s uncle. Damar was originally on 100% oxygen and is now down to 50%. Says the family is hanging in there. He thanked Bills fans, and Bengals fans and asked for continued prayers
— Josh Reed (@4JoshReed) January 3, 2023
Update as of 12 p.m. EST (Tuesday):
Announcement directly from Damar’s family: pic.twitter.com/MdzgxUmVfg
— Jordon Rooney (@jordonr) January 3, 2023
Update as of 2:50 a.m. EST:
Damar Hamlin suffered a cardiac arrest following a hit in our game versus the Bengals. His heartbeat was restored on the field and he was transferred to the UC Medical Center for further testing and treatment. He is currently sedated and listed in critical condition.
— Buffalo Bills (@BuffaloBills) January 3, 2023
Update as of 10:40 p.m. EST
Update on Damar:
His vitals are back to normal and they have put him to sleep to put a breathing tube down his throat. They are currently running tests.
We will provide updates as we have them.
— Jordon Rooney (@jordonr) January 3, 2023
Update as of 10:03 p.m. EST
The game has officially been postponed as Hamlin remains in critical condition.
Official statement from the league:
Tonight’s Buffalo Bills-Cincinnati Bengals game has been postponed after Buffalo Bills’ Damar Hamlin collapsed, NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell announced.
Hamlin received immediate medical attention on the field by team and independent medical staff and local paramedics. He was then transported to a local hospital where he is in critical condition.
Our thoughts are with Damar and the Buffalo Bills. We will provide more information as it becomes available.
The NFL has been in constant communication with the NFL Players Association which is in agreement with postponing the game.
Original story
During the first quarter of Monday Night Football between the Buffalo Bills and Cincinnati Bengals, Damar Hamlin collapsed on the field with 5:58 left in the opening period with Cincinnati leading 7-3.
Hamlin completed a tackle, took a few steps after getting up before collapsing on the field instantly. An ambulance came on the field and per the analyst during the game, CPR was administered to him.
Players were visibly shaken including Josh Allen and Steffan Diggs who was since with tears in his eyes.
Initially, both teams were told they would have a five-minute warm up after Hamlin was driven off the field and rushed to Paycor Stadium. But eventually headquarters in New York announced the game would be temporarily suspended as both teams went to their respective locker-rooms to regroup.
More details to come as the story develops.
