Buffalo Bills player Damar Hamlin, whose “neurological function is excellent” according to his doctors, continues to make progress in his recovery, five days after his cardiac arrest during an NFL game, his club said Saturday.
During the night between Thursday and Friday, Hamlin was detubated and has since resumed breathing on his own. He was also able to speak with his teammates and his coach, but he “remains in critical condition”, recalls the Bills statement.
The 24-year-old defenseman suffered cardiac arrest Monday after a terrible shock to his chest while tackling an opponent during the regular season game against the Bengals.
Hamlin, who had passed out immediately after recovering from this action, was immediately treated and revived on the ground, before being admitted to the University of Cincinnati Medical Center (UCMC).
An impressive sequence seen by millions of viewers who watch this match between two Super Bowl candidates, in a packed stadium suddenly silenced. Players from both teams gathered around him, many of them kneeling in prayer, some in tears.
The NFL, which had suspended the Bills-Bengals game indefinitely after the tragedy on the lawn, finally called it off Thursday night, in consultation with the two teams and the players’ union (NFLPA).
On the other hand, the last day of the regular season is well maintained this weekend and the Bills, back in training, will host the New England Patriots on Sunday.
The tributes have already been paid this Saturday, on the sidelines of the Las Vegas meeting between the Raiders and the Chiefs.
Allegiant Stadium players and staff wore “Love for 3 Damar” shirts. Kansas City quarterback Patrick Mahomes sported a hoodie with “Hamlin Strong” written on the back and a picture of the player.