Safety Damar Hamlin is staying home, where he remains one of his NFL franchise’s favorite sons.
The Buffalo Bills signed the five-year pro to a one-year contract on Friday, March 27, the team announced. The Bills did not disclose terms of the deal.
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Hamlin is a beloved figure in Bills history. His recovery from a cardiac arrest suffered on the field inspired the entire league. He returned to play five games the season after his cardiac arrest and has been a fixture in the Buffalo lineup. Hamlin played just five games in 2025 due to a pectoral injury.
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ESPN NFL reporter Adam Schefter reported the signing on his X account.
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Bills fans remember Hamlin most for a fateful night in Cincinnati when he nearly lost his life.
Hamlin and the Bills faced off against the Bengals on Jan. 2, 2023. Early in the game, Cincinnati wide receiver Tee Higgins caught a pass and collided with Hamlin during a tackle at midfield. Hamlin got up briefly, then fell back to the turf.
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Medical personnel restored Hamlin’s heartbeat on the field. Later, it was determined Hamlin suffered commotio cardis, a condition that involves the interruption of the cardiac rhythm by a severe blow to the chest.
Buffalo Bills safety Damar Hamlin (3) on the field after a game against the New Orleans Saints. | Mark Konezny-Imagn Images
After playing five games during the 2023 season, Hamlin started 14 games at safety for the Bills in 2024. He recorded 89 tackles, defended 15 passes, intercepted two passes and recovered a fumble. Hamlin began last season as a backup until the pectoral muscle sent him to injured reserve.
Since his recovery, Hamlin started the Chasing M’s Foundation. According to ESPN, the foundation has teamed with the Bills, the NFL “to spread heart health awareness through the knowledge and use of CPR and AEDs, including through new legislation and CPR tours.”
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