Members of the Cincinnati Bengals and Buffalo Bills are still in shock after Bills safety Damar Hamlin collapsed during the Jan. 2 game at Paycor Stadium.
With just under six minutes left in the first quarter, Hamlin tackled Bengals wide receiver Tee Higgins. After standing up, Hamlin immediately collapsed and stayed on the turf for several minutes.
Hamlin, 24, was transported to the University of Cincinnati Medical Center, where he is listed in critical condition as of Jan. 3. He had suffered cardiac arrest on the field, according to the Bills.
"Damar Hamlin suffered a cardiac arrest following a hit in the Buffalo Bills' game versus the Cincinnati Bengals. His heartbeat was restored on the field and he was transferred to the University of Cincinnati Medical Center for further testing and treatment. He is currently sedated and listed in critical condition," the Bills posted at 1:48 a.m. Jan. 3.
The game, which was nationally broadcast as part of Monday Night Football on ESPN, was suspended and then postponed after a meeting among NFL officials and both teams' coaches. The league has not determined when or if the game will be resumed, and some members of the Bills have returned home. At the time of the pause, Cincinnati led 7-3.
Hamlin's family released a statement on Jan. 3 thanking fans for their support and noting the care he has received in Cincinnati.
"We are deeply moved by the prayers, kind words and donations from fans around the country," the statement reads in part. "We also want to acknowledge the dedicated first responders and healthcare professionals at the University of Cincinnati Medical Center who have provided exceptional care to Damar. We feel so blessed to be part of the Buffalo Bills organization and to have their support. We also want to thank Coach [Zac] Taylor and the Bengals for everything they've done."
Players and fans from both teams are taking to social media to wish Hamlin well. Scroll down to see the outpouring of support.
Background photo: twitter.com/JayMorrisonATH
Players and fans in Cincinnati and Buffalo are supporting Buffalo Bills safety Damar Hamlin, who suffered a cardiac arrest during a game against the Cincinnati Bengals at Paycor Stadium on Jan. 2, 2023.
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