Damar Hamlin Plays First Game Since Cardiac Arrest

Damar Hamlin played in his first game since he suffered a cardiac arrest during an NFL game in early January.

Hamlin, a safety, played in the Buffalo Bills’ preseason opener against the Indianapolis Colts on Saturday.

After the Bills scored a touchdown in the first quarter, Hamlin came on the field to join the kickoff team. He also played on defense where he made an immediate impact, Reuters reported.

“It was fun, it was super fun,” Hamlin, who was credited with three solo tackles in the Bills’ 23-19 victory, told reporters. “It was a great experience you know what I’m saying? Just another milestone and the step of getting back to myself as far as in the football space and the NFL.”

“I made the choice that I wanted to play. It wasn’t nobody else’s choice but mine. So making that choice, I know what comes with it,” the 25-year-old added.

“When you see my cleats laced up and my helmet and shoulder pads on, there ain’t going to be no hesitation. You can’t play this game like that,” he said.

“When I’m out there, I’m just not thinking twice, I’m just playing my game and playing how I was taught to play since I was my little brother’s age.”

Hamlin collapsed during a Jan. 2 game against the Cincinnati Bengals after making a tackle. He was resuscitated on the field and transported to the hospital.

He was discharged from the hospital nine days after the incident and has made a remarkable recovery.