In Week 17 of the 2022 NFL season, Damar Hamlin of the Buffalo Bills attempted a tackle on Cincinnati Bengals wide receiver Tee Higgins during a game on Monday Night Football. After the two athletes crashed to the turf, Hamlin got up but immediately crumpled back to the field, requiring immediate medical intervention for a cardiac incident.
Hamlin’s story became worldwide news, as the Bills safety worked his way back to full health after the traumatic incident. Along the way Hamlin raised awareness for the importance of cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) training, and inspired thousands to receive their own certifications.
Hamlin was cleared to return to football for the 2023 season.
This year, however, Hamlin has taken on a bigger role in Buffalo’s lineup. Hamlin earned a starting spot as a safety in the Bills defense, and on Monday night he was back on Monday Night Football as the Bills hosted the Jaguars.
And 630 days after his cardiac incident in Cincinnati, Hamlin snared his first career interception, on this overthrow by Trevor Lawrence:
Hamlin’s interception touched off an incredible scene in Buffalo, as the entire defense joined in on the celebration with the safety. Up in the booth, ESPN’s Dan Orlovosky referring to the Bills safety as a “walking miracle:”
An absolutely incredible moment, and another chapter in an inspiring story.
