Buffalo Bills safety Damar Hamlin responded after rumors on social media questioned whether he actually attended. Buffalo playoff game against the Cincinnati Bengals on Sunday.
for the first time since suffering a cardiac arrest on the field and requiring CPR, Hamlin participated in a game at Highmark Stadium.
Football: Buffalo Bills fan holds a sign of Damar Hamlin (3) vs. New England Patriots at Highmark Stadium. Buffalo, New York 1/8/2023
(Simon Bruty/Sports Illustrated via Getty Images)
He was seen being driven in a car to the team locker room before the game and the CBS broadcast showed Hamlin in a suite cheering on his team and acknowledging the crowd during the game.
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Most of Hamlin’s face was covered in gameplay videos, and the broadcast never got a clear picture of Hamlin, leading some to speculate that it wasn’t really him.
The second-year safety had a little fun with the rumors Monday.
Hamlin thanked his supporters Tuesday and said they’ll hear from him soon.
«Grateful for all the GENUINE love, thoughts and prayers from everyone…hearing from me soon!» Hamlin posted on Twitter.
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While Hamlin didn’t take the field during Buffalo’s 27-10 loss to Cincinnatihe visited his teammates in the locker room before the game.
Buffalo Bills fans hold a photo of Damar Hamlin (3) during the game against the New England Patriots at Highmark Stadium. Buffalo.
(Simon Bruty/Sports Illustrated via Getty Images)
«Just his presence, I think it says a lot,» center Mitch Morse said, according to ESPN. «…he’s not a great guy, and I’m sure at some point he’s a little tired of people asking how he’s doing or being put in a position he didn’t ask to be put in.
«His very presence, his smile, his positive energy, which he’s always had, always injects energy and good vibes with the group. It was very good to see him. I’m very happy for the fans, the crowd, for him.» He can get out, and he’s worked very hard to get to the position he’s in now.»
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FILE – Buffalo Bills safety Damar Hamlin (31) prior to an NFL football game against the Tennessee Titans on Monday, Oct. 18, 2021, in Nashville, Tennessee.
(AP Photo/John Amis, File)
While Hamlin has shown marked improvement since collapsing in the field on January 2, he still faces a long recovery, according to The Associated Press.
«Damar still needs oxygen and has regular cardiac monitoring to make sure there are no setbacks or sequelae,» said Jordan Rooney, Hamlin’s marketing representative. «Although he is able to visit team facilities, Damar is not in a condition to travel frequently and requires extra rest to help his body heal.»
Fox News’ Elizabeth Pritchett contributed to this report