NFL star Hamlin ‘improving’ but still critical
BUFFALO Bills safety Damar Hamlin, who suffered a cardiac arrest during an NFL game, is improving but remains sedated in critical condition as other players began preparing for weekend contests.
The 24-year-old defensive back collapsed on Monday night (local time) after receiving a hard hit in the chest while tackling Cincinnati receiver Tee Higgins during the first quarter of the Bills’ road game.
Medical workers restored Hamlin’s heartbeat on the field and he was taken from the stadium to a hospital by ambulance while the game was halted with the Bills trailing 7-3.
“Damar remains in the ICU in critical condition with signs
of improvement noted yesterday and overnight,” the Bills said in a statement.
“He is expected to remain under intensive care as his health care team continues to monitor and treat him.”
Jordon Rooney, a friend and Hamlin marketing representative, gave a medical update on Wednesday.
“Right now things are moving in a positive direction,” Rooney told the NFL Network.
Rooney disputed a claim by Hamlin’s uncle, Dorrian Glenn, that Hamlin was resuscitated at the hospital as well as on the field.
He also said Hamlin’s family was unhappy to see criticism for Higgins over the hit that hospitalised Hamlin.
“This was a regular football play,” Rooney said.
“The family doesn’t want any brushback on Tee at all.”
NFL players returned to workouts on Wednesday ahead of the final weekend of regular-season games, where the Bills were preparing to play host to New England on Sunday.
Fans gathered outside the Bills’ home stadium to conduct a prayer vigil for Hamlin.