Bills safety Damar Hamlin recently attended the 2024 ESPYs in Los Angeles before returning to St. John Fisher University for the start of training camp on July 23. Speaking with Heavy Sports at the Dolby Theatre on July 11, the 26-year-old reflected on his approach to the final year of his $3.64 million rookie contract with the Buffalo Bills.
When asked about his discussions with the Bills regarding his future in Buffalo, Hamlin replied, “You know my mindset and process is just to get back on the field. Get the ball back rolling like I had in 2022. Get back to making plays, having fun with my teammates. You know, just enjoying the game.”
“That’s my mindset. Once I handle that, contract talks will handle itself,” he added.
Hamlin’s NFL career and life nearly came to an end after he suffered cardiac arrest on the field at Paycor Stadium on January 2, 2023. His full recovery and return to football was nothing short of remarkable, however, the Bills used him sparingly.
Hamlin appeared in just five games last season, recording a total of two tackles. During the 2022 NFL season, Hamlin appeared in 15 games and made 13 starts, registering 91 total tackles, 3 quarterback hits, 2 passes defensed, and 1 forced fumble.
While Hamlin said in February that it would be “a dream” to finish his career near his hometown with the Pittsburgh Steelers, he later clarified his comments.
Damar Hamlin Didn’t See the ‘Breakup’ With Stefon Diggs Coming, Has Mixed Feelings on the Roster Shakeup
My brother was the first one to come see me at my lowest.. love you forever 14. 💕 https://t.co/IMg8JTYKeS
— 𝐃𝐚𝐦𝐚𝐫 𝐇𝐚𝐦𝐥𝐢𝐧 (@HamlinIsland) August 12, 2023
“I want to be a Buffalo Bill for life. That’s the team that took a chance on me,” said Hamlin, reflecting on his aspirations during an interview on “The Ed Mallet Show” on April 2. He clarified that his earlier comments about the Pittsburgh Steelers were rooted in childhood dreams.
Hamlin expressed a deep connection with his teammates from the Bills’ 2022-23 roster and admitted he was disappointed by the team’s offseason roster cuts, including the trade of his close friend, wide receiver Stefon Diggs.
“I didn’t see that breakup coming,” Hamlin told Heavy Sports regarding Diggs’ departure. “I wanted to keep the team we had together because of the bond we formed during my recovery. I wished we could’ve stayed together forever, but I understand it’s part of the business.”
Despite the emotional farewells, Hamlin is looking forward to the addition of former Kansas City Chiefs safety Mike Edwards to the Bills. He values Edwards’ veteran experience, which includes winning two Super Bowls.
“With Mike Edwards on the team, I’m eager to learn from his success at the highest level,” Hamlin said. “I’m not focused on gaining intel on our AFC rivals; I’m focused on gaining insights from a seasoned player.”
Edwards will continue to wear his No. 21 jersey in Buffalo, a number previously worn by safety Jordan Poyer, who departed for the Miami Dolphins.
