Damar Hamlin returns to pads at Bills training camp for first time since January

Buffalo Bills safety Damar Hamlin took the practice field on Monday to thunderous applause as he donned his pads for the first time since January. After suffering a cardiac arrest on the field during a game versus the Bengals, Hamlin chose to suit up once again to enter another year in the NFL.

Asked after practice how he felt out on the field, Hamlin admitted that he’s processing too many emotions to count.

“Football, you can’t hit that field with no hesitation, you’re putting yourself in more danger by doing that,” Hamlin said. “I made the choice to play. I’m processing 1,000 emotions. I’m not afraid to say that it crosses my mind… My strength is rooted in my faith and my faith is stronger than any fear.

“As long as your faith is stronger than your fear, you can get through anything.”

Damar Hamlin back in pads for the first time since January here at #Bills camp. pic.twitter.com/UPbWbeWBZO

— Tom Pelissero (@TomPelissero) July 31, 2023

At 25 years old, the safety still has a lot to offer the Bills defense. Last season, he posted 91 tackles with 5.5 tackles for loss and 1.5 sacks. He also forced a fumble.

Hamlin is still playing on his four-year rookie contract, but a big season in 2023 could have him signing an early extension by training camp next year. He’s become an inspiration to many and a face of the Bills franchise since his ordeal and recovery.

After practice, Hamlin sat down with the media for a 22-minute-long press conference before heading to see fans that stuck around to meet him.

Hamlin completes CPR training tour

Hamlin’s near death on the field in Cincinnati is inspiring him to go above and beyond to help others.

The Bills safety spent his summer helping to teach the techniques that saved his life back on Jan. 2. Using his Chasing M’s foundation, Hamlin was able to spread the word on CPR. At each stop, his foundation handed out automated external defibrillators (AED) to youth sports organizations. And everyone who attended the events also learned how to do CPR.

Damar Hamlin is now much more than just an NFL player heading into this third season. He also is a conduit for what he calls a “superpower.”

“I just want to be able to … take a nation of bystanders and turn them into lifesavers and give them a true superpower,” Hamlin said in an interview with the Associated Press. “To be able to save a life is a true superpower. Instead of people standing by not knowing what to do, I’m just trying to create more people who do know what to do. This weekend specifically, people in my community.”

He added “My (fame) came about a different way. But we’re here and we’re getting the job done.”

“I wake up every day and think about how I can impact the world in a positive way,” Hamlin added. “That’s what I care about if you take away everything else.”

On3’s Suzanne Halliburton contributed to this report.