Buffalo Bills safety Damar Hamlin has found himself at the center of a heated discussion among fans – not because of a contract decision, but because of a jersey. As he prepares to enter free agency following the 2025 season, Hamlin was seen wearing a New England Patriots uniform belonging to wide receiver Stefon Diggs, a moment that quickly divided the Bills Mafia online.
For a fanbase deeply invested in one of the AFC East’s fiercest rivalries, the image raised eyebrows immediately. Yet the story behind it reveals more about relationships than allegiances.
Rivalry vs. friendship: Why the Hamlin’s Jersey caused a reaction
The Buffalo-New England rivalry remains one of the NFL’s most emotionally charged matchups. During the Tom Brady era, the Patriots dominated the division, posting a 33-3 record against Buffalo. In recent years, however, the Bills have reversed the trend behind quarterback Josh Allen, winning nine of 13 meetings since 2020.
Given that history, some fans reacted strongly when Hamlin appeared in Patriots gear.
I’m very confused why is he wearing a Pats jersey.
But context matters. Hamlin and Diggs shared three seasons together in Buffalo and developed a close bond, especially after Hamlin’s cardiac arrest during a 2023 game against the Cincinnati Bengals. Diggs was among the first teammates to visit him in the hospital, a memory supporters quickly referenced.
“Stefon Diggs visited him in the hospital after he almost died… but god forbid he wears a jersey of a rival team,” another fan replied.
Others agreed, emphasizing the human side of the moment: “Some things are just bigger than sports.”
Free agency uncertainty adds fuel to Damlin’s speculation
The timing of the incident also amplified reactions. Hamlin’s one-year contract expired after the 2025 season, placing his future in Buffalo in doubt. Injuries limited him to five games, where he recorded one tackle before landing on injured reserve with a pectoral issue.
Meanwhile, fellow safeties Jordan Poyer and Cole Bishop stepped into larger roles, complicating Hamlin’s path to significant playing time. With roster competition and salary cap decisions looming, a fresh start elsewhere remains possible.
That reality led some fans to interpret the jersey differently – not as betrayal, but as a reflection of relationships in a business-driven league. One supporter summarized it simply: “He supported his friend who played in the Super Bowl.”
The moment highlights the delicate balance athletes navigate between loyalty to teammates and loyalty to teams. Rivalries fuel passion among fans, but inside locker rooms, bonds often transcend uniforms.
As free agency approaches, Hamlin’s next destination remains unknown. Whether he returns to Buffalo or signs elsewhere, the episode serves as a reminder: in professional sports, friendships can outlast contracts – and sometimes even rivalries.
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