Several players and teams have sent their thoughts and prayers to Buffalo Bills safety Damar Hamlin who collapsed during the Monday Night Football game against the Bengals in Cincinnati.
The 24-year-old starting defensive back is in critical condition at a Cincinnati hospital after collapsing and receiving CPR on the field. Hamlin suffered cardiac arrest, according to the Bills in a statement early Tuesday.
“His heartbeat was restored on the field and he was transferred to the UC Medical Center for further testing and treatment,” the Bills said. “He is currently sedated and listed in critical condition.”
NBC News reported that Cincinnati “was leading 7-3 when Hamlin tackled Bengals wide receiver Tee Higgins, stood up and then fell over on his back.” An ambulance arrived on the field while trainers surrounded Hamlin. The player received CPR for several minutes before he was lifted onto a stretcher and into an ambulance.
The Bills knelt to pray as other players watched in sadness. “Our thoughts are with Damar and the Buffalo Bills. We will provide more information as it becomes available,” the NFL said in a statement.
The game was officially suspended. Players, coaches, and fans have since offered prayers for Hamlin. “Bills Mafia is with you, @HamlinIsland,” the Buffalo Bills tweeted. Bills quarterback Josh Allen wrote: “Please pray for our brother.”
The NFL Players Association also tweeted: “The NFLPA and everyone in our community is praying for Damar Hamlin. We have been in touch with Bills and Bengals players, and with the NFL. The only thing that matters at this moment is Damar’s health and well being.”
The NFL has in recent times been criticized over how it protects players in a game that can be violent.
