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Bills say Hamlin has 'shown remarkable improvement' | Here's what we know
Here's what we know so far about his condition, what happened, and what will happen next.
Author: WGRZ Staff
Published: 11:11 AM EST January 3, 2023
Updated: 11:30 AM EST January 5, 2023
BUFFALO, N.Y. — There was much anticipation for the Buffalo Bills Monday Night Football Game against the Cincinnati Bengals. However, the game was halted after Bills safety Damar Hamlin collapsed on the field right after completing a tackle.
Here's what we know so far.
Hamlin collapses during game
Hamlin collapsed at 8:55 p.m. He had just completed a tackle of Bengals receiver Tee Higgins.
Around 2 a.m. the Bills released a statement saying Hamlin had suffered a cardiac arrest.
CPR was administered to Hamlin while he was surrounded by teammates, many of them breaking out into prayer.
Hamlin was on the field for 16 minutes, during which time his heartbeat was restored. The ambulance departed five minutes later. He was taken to UC Medical Center for treatment.
What is Hamlin's current condition?
On Thursday morning, the Bills posted on social media that Damar Hamlin is doing better.
In a tweet, the Bills said "Damar has shown remarkable improvement over the past 24 hours." They reported that he is still critically ill, but he has "demonstrated that he appears to be neurologically intact."
His lungs are continuing to heal and he is reported to be making "steady progress."
pic.twitter.com/4Fyd2JZVLb
— Buffalo Bills (@BuffaloBills) January 5, 2023
How are his teammates doing?
AP reported that NFL executive Troy Vincent said the Bills players, except for a few who stayed behind with Hamlin, returned early Tuesday to the team facility.
When the team returned to Buffalo, the NFTA prevented fans from parking near the airport and blocked off streets to allow players to leave.
Hamlin's teammates have posted reactions on social media, including Bills quarterback Josh Allen asking for prayers. Dawson Knox also asked for prayers.
Shaq Lawson tweeted "Can't even sleep right now thinking about my brother so much."
What will happen to the game?
About an hour after the injury occurred, the NFL announced the game was being suspended.
Tuesday afternoon, the NFL said the game would not be played this week.
NFL Insider Vic Carucci said Roger Goodell will make the call on rescheduling the game, which would have to take place within two days. Another option for the league is to add a 19th week.
What have the teams said?
Damar Hamlin spent last night in the intensive care unit and remains there today in critical condition at the University of Cincinnati Medical Center.
We are grateful and thankful for the outpouring of support we have received thus far.
A statement from Bengals owner, Mike Brown. pic.twitter.com/FfUCrgSnWQ
— Cincinnati Bengals (@Bengals) January 3, 2023
pic.twitter.com/Q5xPxUZpxH
— NFL (@NFL) January 3, 2023
Hamlin injury reminds Buffalo fans of other dark moments in sports
More than $6.7M raised for Damar Hamlin's charity following his collapse during game
Damar Hamlin suffers cardiac arrest, remains in critical condition