MIAMI, FL —— The sports community has been in shock following the news of Buffalo Bills safety Damar Hamlin’s collapse on the field during Monday night’s game against the Cincinnati Bengals.
According to the NFL, Hamlin was rushed to the hospital in critical condition and has been fighting for his life. Reports indicate that he is currently breathing on his own through a tube as he receives treatment.
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In the wake of this tragic event, many players and athletes, including Patrick Mahomes, Josh Allen, J.J. Watt, and LeBron James, have taken to social media to offer their support and prayers for Hamlin and his family. Gospel artist Kirk Franklin has also joined in offering prayers for Hamlin’s recovery.
In a heartwarming show of support, Hamlin’s toy drive fundraiser on GoFundMe has surpassed $3 million in donations in the hours following his on-field collapse. The NFL has stated that the resumption of the game was never in question and dismissed reports that players were given only five minutes to warm up after Hamlin was taken to the hospital.
Our thoughts and prayers are with Damar Hamlin and his family during this challenging time. We hope for a full recovery for the young safety and are grateful to see the outpouring of support from the community.
“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 Players Association in a statement.
“Bills Mafia is with you, @HamlinIsland.” — Buffalo Bills on Twitter.
“Prayer is power and Prayer is POWERFUL we need the world to pray for Damar Hamlin and his family #Love #3” — Bills offensive tackle Dion Dawkins on Twitter.
“Sending our thoughts and prayers to Damar.” — Cincinnati Bengals on Twitter.
“Please pray for our brother.” — Bills quarterback Josh Allen on Twitter.
“The game is not important. Damar Hamlin’s life is important. Please be ok. Please.” — Arizona Cardinals defensive end J.J Watt on Twitter.
“Praying hard.. please be okay man.” — Kansas City quarterback Patrick Mahomes on Twitter.
“My prayers and thoughts go out to @HamlinIsland the Hamlin Family. I’m praying that you pull through bro. Love.” — Bengals wide receiver Tee Higgins, who was tackled by Hamlin on the play during which the Bills safety was injured.
“It was definitely the right call (to postpone the game) by Roger Goodell or whoever had the authority to make that call. The safety of players in all sports is always the most important. It is a terrible thing to see and I wish nothing but the best for that kid and the city of Buffalo, for the franchise of the Bills and the rest of the NFL and also the Bengals that were playing in that game as well. I’m a huge fan of the NFL and a huge fan of football and you never want to see anything like that happen.” — NBA star LeBron James after the Los Angeles Lakers’ 121-115 win at Charlotte.
“Demar Hamlin is a kind caring extremely hard worker. He is loyal honest and can always put a smile on your face. He is more than an athlete, he is a son and brother. I pray God gives him mercy and brings him back to us.” — Bills offensive lineman Rodger Saffold on Twitter.
“Please join me in prayer for Damar Hamlin.” — former NFL quarterback Tim Tebow on Twitter.
“Lord, please be with Damar Hamlin, his team, and his family…my heart hurts in this moment for him.” — Grammy-winning gospel artist Kirk Franklin on Twitter.
“Damar Hamlin is the best of us. We love you, 3. Praying for you.” — University of Pittsburgh’s football account on Twitter. Hamlin played his college ball at Pitt.
“No one’s been through this. I’ve never seen anything like it, either.” — Longtime NFL quarterback Troy Aikman on the ESPN telecast.
“Praying for Damar Hamlin and his family.” — New England Patriots quarterback Mac Jones on Twitter.
“Never before have I ever witnessed anything like this. The game doesn’t matter. Praying for Damar and his family.” — Former Bills quarterback and Pro Football Hall of Famer Jim Kelly on Twitter.
“Football family & #billsmafia – With our prayers combined we can come together for #damarhamlin … God cover #3.” — Former Bills wide receiver and Pro Football Hall of Famer Andre Reed on Twitter.
