Buffalo Bills safety Damar Hamlin is at the top of the nominee list for the AP NFL Comeback Player of the Year.
More News: NFL MVP 2025 Finalists Revealed
Hamlin has been named a finalist for the 2024 NFL Comeback Player of the Year for the second consecutive season. The Buffalo Bills safety played in 14 games this year, recording 89 tackles, 2 interceptions, and 5 passes defended. One of his standout moments came when he intercepted Jaguars QB Trevor Lawrence in a dominant 47-10 win on Monday Night Football, followed by another pick against Titans QB Mason Rudolph in a 34-10 victory.
On January 2, 2025, Hamlin marked the two-year anniversary of his cardiac arrest by hosting a dinner with the Buffalo Bills training staff, expressing his gratitude for their crucial role in his recovery. During the event, Hamlin also revealed the expansion of his Chasing M's Foundation, which now includes a Buffalo Heroes scholarship in addition to the program that began in Cincinnati.
Reflecting on the life-changing event, Hamlin said, "Two years ago, my life was forever changed, and I stand here today because of the incredible training staff who acted quickly and saved me. Their dedication, expertise, and compassion remind us of the importance of being prepared in the moments that matter most."
On January 2, 2023, during a Week 17 Monday Night Football game against the Bengals, Damar Hamlin collapsed on the field after tackling Tee Higgins. Higgins had caught a pass and collided with Hamlin's chest, but the tackle appeared routine.
After standing briefly, Hamlin suddenly fell unconscious. Emergency responders arrived quickly, performing CPR, defibrillation, and other treatments for about 10 minutes on the field.
An ambulance was brought in, and many players gathered in support. Hamlin was transported to the University of Cincinnati Medical Center at 9:23 p.m. in critical condition and was intubated.
Later, it was revealed that he had suffered cardiac arrest due to commotio cordis, a rare condition caused by a blow to the chest that disrupts the heart's rhythm. If untreated within three minutes, it is typically fatal.
Hamlin's heartbeat was restored on the field, and he survived thanks to prompt intervention.
In addition to Hamlin, other finalists for the Comeback Player of the Year award include Bengals quarterback Joe Burrow, Vikings quarterback Sam Darnold, Chargers running back J.K. Dobbins, and Patriots cornerback Christian Gonzalez.
More News:
Adam Schefter Believes Titans President's Comments Indicate Surprise Direction At No. 1 Overall
Eagles Sell Buckets of Snow From Divisional Win Against Rams, Sells Out in Hours
For more on the NFL, head to Newsweek Sports.