Buffalo Bills safety Damar Hamlin, who has captured hearts with his remarkable comeback from cardiac arrest earlier this year, is expected to remain inactive during the Week 1 matchup against the New York Jets on Monday night. This surprising decision, reported by ESPN and NFL Network, comes despite Hamlin’s triumphant return to full health.
Reports suggest that the Bills have opted to go with Taylor Rapp and Cam Lewis as the primary backups at the safety position for the primetime showdown. Hamlin, aged 25, had been making strides during the preseason, ranking second on the team in tackles, and his inclusion on the 53-man active roster for the 2023 season was celebrated by Bills coach Sean McDermott.
Damar Hamlin has come a long way
Hamlin’s remarkable journey to recovery began when he suffered a terrifying cardiac arrest incident on the field during a game against the Cincinnati Bengals in January. Despite the odds, he not only survived but made an impressive return to the game he loves. Last week, at a charity event, Hamlin expressed his gratitude for his second chance in the NFL, emphasizing that he would never take his spot on the team for granted.
“Every year, so many people who don’t get the opportunity to make the team that you have to show respect for it when you do and you can never take it for granted because, the NFL, they say it stands for ‘not for long.’ So, to be able to go through my situation and then be able to come back and still show that I can still do it is super big and it means a lot to me and my family,” Hamlin remarked.
While Hamlin’s expected inactivity might be a disappointment to his fans, there is a silver lining. If starting safety Micah Hyde is forced to sit out due to recurring back issues, Hamlin could still find himself active and ready to contribute. Last season, Hamlin started 13 games when Hyde and Jordan Poyer were unavailable, showcasing his versatility and resilience.
Despite not getting the call for the Week 1 finale, Hamlin’s journey remains an incredible source of inspiration. He has successfully overcome a life-threatening medical incident and has been determined to prove that he belongs on the NFL field. This temporary setback is just a testament to the Bills’ depth in their defensive backfield.
What to expect going forward for Damar Hamlin
In the coming weeks, we can anticipate Hamlin’s triumphant return to the field, where he will undoubtedly serve as a living testament to the resilience of the human spirit. His story will continue to inspire not only football fans but anyone facing adversity, proving that with determination and courage, the impossible can become possible.
