Just when things seemed to be turning around for Damar Hamlin, life has thrown him another curveball. The Buffalo Bills safety-best known for his miraculous recovery from a near-fatal health scare-may become the odd man out in the team’s loaded secondary this season.
Hamlin was selected by the Bills as the 212th overall pick in the 2021 NFL Draft. After spending his rookie year with the second team, an injury to star safety Micah Hyde opened the door for him to start in 2022. Hamlin seized the opportunity, recording 63 total tackles (28 solo) and forcing a fumble.
Then tragedy struck. On January 2, 2023, Hamlin collapsed on the field during a game against the Cincinnati Bengals. He suffered cardiac arrest and required emergency medical treatment and a prolonged recovery. He returned to action in 2024-but now, a new battle awaits.
A crowded competition in Buffalo
According to analysts like Mike Fisher of Athlon Sports, Taylor Rapp has all but secured one of the Bills’ two starting safety spots. That leaves Hamlin competing with Cole Bishop-a second-year prospect-and newly acquired free agent Darrick Forrest for the other position.
While no decision is expected until preseason evaluations, Fisher suggests that the team’s investment in Bishop might give him the inside track.
And what about Hamlin? Despite earning the 2023 George Halas Award for his remarkable comeback-and enjoying steadfast support from Bills Mafia-his two starting seasons were due largely to Hyde’s absence. Hyde was sidelined in 2023 and later transferred in 2024.
What’s next for Damar Hamlin?
In a recent media appearance, Hamlin expressed his gratitude for the chance to continue contributing to the Bills’ defense. Still, Fisher warns that the University of Pittsburgh alum faces stiff competition in training camp.
The upcoming training camps will largely determine the Bills’ depth chart. The task looks daunting, but if Damar Hamlin has proven anything, it’s that not even a cardiac arrest can stop him.
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