Damar Hamlin – latest: Buffalo Bills share new injury update after cardiac arrest on NFL field

NFL player Damar Hamlin is showing “signs of improvement” but he remains in intensive care after suffering cardiac arrest on the field during a game on Monday night.

The Buffalo Bills player remains in critical condition in hospital after he collapsed to the ground after making a tackle on Cincinnati Bengals receiver Tee Higgins before being treated by first responders.

Hamlin’s uncle, Dorrian Glenn had told CNN on Tuesday evening that his nephew had to be resuscitated twice, although family friend and Hamlin’s marketing representative Jordon Rooney clarified those remarks on Wednesday morning - saying that Glenn misspoke and the safety was only resuscitated once.

“Right now things are moving in a positive direction,” Rooney told NFL Network. “What the doctors were looking to see, I think they saw that. There were some reports last night that he was resuscitated twice. I wanted to clarify, we misspoke, he was only resuscitated once.”

Hamlin’s family have thanked fans as well as praising the work of medical personnel and the support from the Bengals and coach Zac Taylor. “We are deeply moved by the prayers, kind words, and donations from fans around the country,” a statement on Tuesday read.

Damar Hamlin latest

• Damar Hamlin showing ‘signs of improvement’ but remains in ICU

• Hamlin moving in ‘a positive direction’ after being resuscitated by medics, says family

• Family release statement: ‘Please keep Damar in your prayers’

• Hamlin ‘suffered a cardiac arrest’ following a hit, Bills says

• NFL deny suggestion they considered playing on after Hamlin collapse

• Bills-Bengals game won’t be resumed this week, NFL says

• Tom Brady makes big donation as Damar Hamlin fundraiser passes $6m

• Shannon Sharpe explains Undisputed absence and Skip Bayless dispute after Damar Hamlin collapse

Bengals coach Zac Taylor praises counterpart Sean McDermott

04:04 , Graeme Massie

ICYMI: Taylor also praised his opposite number, the Buffalo Bills head coach Sean McDermott, for his handling of the situation.

Taylor explained that McDermott had told him: “I need to be at the hospital for Damar, I shouldn’t be coaching this game.”

Taylor said: “That, to me, provided all the clarity.”

He added: “I really felt Sean McDermott led in that moment. He was there for his players. He processed it the right way, which was incredibly difficult, and really helped us get to the solution we needed to get to.”

Doctors’ response prevented ‘tragic outcome’, says NFL medical chief

03:02 , Graeme Massie

ICYMI: The NFL’s chief medical officer, Dr Allen Sills, said: “It is not an exaggeration to say that the skilled and immediate response by all these talented caregivers prevented a tragic outcome at that moment.”

Sills added: “There was only one policy and practice that mattered that evening, and that was the emergency action plan by those first responders.

“It gave our brother Damar another day to live.”

Noah Berlatsky: We need to call out the despicable response to Damar Hamlin’s injury

02:01 , Graeme Massie

ICYMI: On Monday night, football fans watched in horror as Buffalo Bills safety Damar Hamlin suffered a cardiac arrest after what looked like a routine tackle. Hamlin received CPR on the field and was taken away in an ambulance. The game was cancelled.

While most people were expressing sympathy or solidarity, conservative pundit Charlie Kirk leaped at the chance to spread conspiracy theories and medical misinformation about Covid vaccines. In doing so, he showed once again that the right’s approach to Covid is built on callous disregard for the safety of workers and the dignity of working people.

After Hamlin’s injury, Kirk tweeted: “This is a tragic and all too familiar sight right now: Athletes dropping suddenly.” That’s a reference to long-standing right-wing conspiracy theories falsely linking the deaths of athletes to the Covid vaccine. There is no evidence for these claims.

The right has developed an entire barrage of conspiratorial claims about athletes in particular because athletes are among the most vaccinated workers in the country. In the NFL, 94.4 percent of players were fully vaccinated in December 2021; in the NBA, it was 95 percent, and in the NHL, 99 percent.

Noah Berlatsky on the despicable response to Hamlin’s injury in certain quarters:

We need to call out the despicable response to Damar Hamlin’s injury | Voices

NFL’s top doctor says pre-game meeting key to Hamlin response

00:30 , Graeme Massie

“If you ask me, the 60-minute meeting is the most important thing we do on Sundays,” NFL Chief Medical Officer Dr. Allan Sills told CNN on Wednesday.

“Fans don’t ever see that meeting. It happens underneath the stands,” Sills said. “It’s part of the reason why, in this tragic moment on Monday night, we could

“It happens one hour before kickoff... and it involves everyone on the medical care team from both teams. So the team physicians, the athletic trainers, our independent personnel, which are our unaffiliated neurotrauma consultants, our airway doctors, our visiting team medical liaisons, the paramedics, the ambulance crew and the referee.

“That whole crew of people gets together one hour before the game, and they review that emergency action plan, they talk specifically about locations of emergency equipment, who’s going to lead if we have a cardiac arrest, how the chain of command will go.”

College Cuber makes artwork to support Damar Hamlin

00:08 , Graeme Massie

Joe Biden speaks with family of critically injured NFL player Damar Hamlin

Wednesday 4 January 2023 23:10 , Graeme Massie

Buffalo Bills say player has shown ‘signs of improvement’ but remains in critical condition.

Joe Biden speaks with family of critically injured NFL player Damar Hamlin

Joe Biden says he has spoken with Damar Hamlin’s family

Wednesday 4 January 2023 22:33 , Graeme Massie

The US president was asked about the Hamlin situation by a White House pool reporter on Wednesday.

“I spoke with his mother and father at length,” Mr Biden said.

Bengals coach offers message of support to Hamlin

Wednesday 4 January 2023 21:30 , Graeme Massie

Cincinnati Bengals coach Zac Taylor offered a message of support for Damar Hamlin as he met with reporters on Wednesday.

Damar Hamlin GoFundMe passes $6.5m

Wednesday 4 January 2023 21:08 , Graeme Massie

Jim Irsay, the owner of the Indianapolis Colts, is the latest big NFL name to contribute with a donation of $25,003.

“This fundraiser was initially established to support a toy drive for Damar’s community, sponsored by the Chasing M’s Foundation,” the GoFundMe states.

“However, it has received renewed support in light of Damar’s current battle and we can’t thank all of you enough. Your generosity and compassion mean the world to us.As representatives of Damar, the team at Jaster Athletes posted the fundraiser updates and will work with the Hamlin family, The Chasing M’s Foundation, and the GoFundMe team to ensure the safe delivery of funds.”

NFL says ‘everything being considered’ for Bills-Bengals game

Wednesday 4 January 2023 19:39 , Graeme Massie

NFL exec Troy Vincent says that “everything is being considered” for the suspended game between the Buffalo Bills and the Cincinnati Bengals caused by the collapse of Damar Hamlin.

“The guiding principles that took us into the 2020 season with COVID” are there said Mr Vincent on Wednesday. “It may not be perfect, but will allow those participating to be able to play.”

Breaking: Damar Hamlin showing ‘signs of improvement’ but remains in ICU

Wednesday 4 January 2023 18:41 , Lawrence Ostlere

The Buffalo Bills have just released a new statement on the condition of Damar Hamlin following his collapse.

“Damar remains in the ICU in critical condition with signs of improvement noted yesterday and overnight. He is expected to remain under intensive care as his health care team continues to monitor and treat him.”

Bengals coach Zac Taylor hails medical staff

Wednesday 4 January 2023 18:35 , Lawrence Ostlere

Zac Taylor, the coach of Hamlin’s opponents the Cincinnati Bengals, has praised the medical staff on the scene.

“They were prepared,” Taylor said. “They gave Damar the best chance. I was really impressed and thankful for the work they put in to be ready for moments like that.”

Shannon Sharpe explains Undisputed absence and Skip Bayless dispute after Damar Hamlin collapse

Wednesday 4 January 2023 18:24 , Luke Baker

Shannon Sharpe has explained he missed Undisputed on Tuesday to avoid a confrontation with co-host Skip Bayless about his tweet following Damar Hamlin’s collapse.

The Buffalo Bills safety, whose condition is “trending upwards in a positive way” but remains in critical condition in hospital, collapsed during Monday night’s NFL game against the Cincinnati Bengals.

Bayless then sparked a furious backlash after questioning whether the NFL should postpone the game after Hamlin was taken off the field and left in a critical condition due to the close proximity to the play-offs.

Sharpe elaborated on his disagreement with Bayless’ tweet in an opening monologue to Wednesday’s Fox Sports 1 show: “There’s been a lot of speculation about why I wasn’t on here yesterday and I won’t get into speculation or conjecture or innuendo.”

Full story:

Shannon Sharpe explains Undisputed absence and Skip Bayless dispute

Kelly Stafford pens emotional Instagram message

Wednesday 4 January 2023 17:39 , Luke Baker

Kelly Stafford, the wife of LA Rams quarterback Matthew Stafford, penned an emotional message on Instagram in light of the incident involving Damar Hamlin.

She wrote “it’s ok to not be ok,” and that she continues to ask herself “the tough questions” after Hamlin suffered cardiac arrest on the field on Monday evening.

She posted: “To all the women who have significant others playing on that field.. I’m with you if you’re not ok. I’m not ok and I continue to ask myself the tough questions. I wish someone could promise us that the people we fell in love with will be those same people when they are finished playing this game, but we all know, that is a promise that can not be made.”

“We all know how hard our men work and have worked their whole lives to be on that field and we don’t take those dreams lightly.. however it does not mean we always have to be the strong/never break support. It’s ok to be vulnerable and talk about it, especially with the man you love most.”

Damar Hamlin’s family praise ‘incredible’ support

Wednesday 4 January 2023 16:43 , Luke Baker

One final nugget from Jordon Rooney’s interview on NFL Network. He said that the family have been blown away by the ‘incredible’ support Hamlin has received from the NFL community and beyond.

“The support has been incredible,” said Rooney. “It's made a really tough situation a little bit easier.

“Damar's family are incredibly supportive themselves, so for them to get support like this, they're so grateful. They're always giving to others, so there's so many people to rally round them. They keep saying how thankful they are.”

Damar Hamlin ‘moving in a positive direction'

Wednesday 4 January 2023 16:28 , Luke Baker

Damar Hamlin’s friend has confirmed the Buffalo Bills safety’s condition is “moving in a positive direction.”

Hamlin is still in a critical condition after suffering a cardiac arrest on the football field following a collision with wide receiver Tee Higgins during Monday’s game against the Cincinnati Bengals.

But Jordon Rooney, a family friend and marketing representative for Hamlin, has provided an encouraging update on his health, while also clarifying earlier reports and information.

Jack Rathborn has the full story:

Damar Hamlin’s family friend gives update on Buffalo Bills star’s condition

VIDEO: Candlelight vigil held for NFL player in critical condition

Wednesday 4 January 2023 17:01 , Luke Baker

Candlelight vigils are being held for Damar Hamlin as the NFL player remains in critical condition in hospital.

The Buffalo Bills star collapsed on the field after a tackle against the Cincinnati Bengals and suffered cardiac arrest.

This footage shows a vigil as fans offered well wishes and prayers for the young athlete.

Damar Hamlin: Candlelight vigil held for NFL player in critical condition

‘No clarity’ on how long things will take

Wednesday 4 January 2023 16:22 , Luke Baker

More from that Jordon Rooney interview with NFL Network - he says that although things are headed in the right direction, it’s still too early for firm timelines of recovery.

Rooney said: “Outside of that, things have just been moving in the right direction but there's no clarity at this point in terms of how long things are going to be, how long they're going to take or where they are going to go.

“So for the family, it's just a matter of seeing more positive signs and build on that.”

Damar Hamlin was ‘only resuscitated once’

Wednesday 4 January 2023 16:15 , Luke Baker

Damar Hamlin’s family friend and marketing representative Jordon Rooney has been speaking to Cameron Wolfe of NFL network to provide an update.

One thing he mentioned was that Hamlin was only resuscitated once, rather than the twice that had been reported when Hamlin’s uncle Dorrian Glenn spoke to the media last night.

The update from Rooney was generally positive and you can see the video below:

“Right now things are moving in a positive direction. What the doctors were looking to see, I think they saw that. I can't speak specifically on it but things are moving in the right direction.

“There were some reports last night that he was resuscitated twice. I wanted to clarify, we misspoke, he was only resuscitated once.”

Shannon Sharpe explains Undisputed absence and Skip Bayless dispute after Damar Hamlin collapse

Wednesday 4 January 2023 15:40 , Jack Rathborn

Shannon Sharpe has explained he missed Undisputed on Tuesday to avoid a confrontation with co-host Skip Bayless about his tweet following Damar Hamlin’s collapse.

The Buffalo Bills safety, whose condition is “trending upwards in a positive way” but remains in critical condition in hospital, collapsed during Monday night’s NFL game against the Cincinnati Bengals.

Bayless then sparked a furious backlash after questioning whether the NFL should postpone the game after Hamlin was taken off the field and left in a critical condition due to the close proximity to the play-offs.

Sharpe elaborated on his disagreement with Bayless’ tweet in an opening monologue to Wednesday’s Fox Sports 1 show: “There’s been a lot of speculation about why I wasn’t on here yesterday and I won’t get into speculation or conjecture or innuendo.

Shannon Sharpe explains Undisputed absence and Skip Bayless dispute

Cincinnati Bengals player tackled by Damar Hamlin receives outpouring of support

Wednesday 4 January 2023 15:28 , Luke Baker

The Cincinnati Bengals player who was involved in the incident that saw Damar Hamlin collapse has received an outpouring of support from NFL fans.

Wide receiver Tee Higgins was the player tacked by the Buffalo Bills safety before he went into cardiac arrest during the game on Monday night.

Hamlin, 24, remains in critical condition at the University of Cincinnati Medical Center and the NFL suspended the game.

Higgins himself took to Twitter to send his thoughts to Hamlin and his family.

“My prayers and thoughts go out to @HamlinIsland the Hamlin Family. I’m praying that you pull through bro,” he tweeted.

Cincinnati Bengals player tackled by Damar Hamlin receives outpouring of support

NFL players are urging people to stop posting Damar Hamlin collapse video

Wednesday 4 January 2023 15:10 , Luke Baker

Current and former NFL players are urging people to stop sharing videos of Buffalo Bills safety Damar Hamlin collapsing on the pitch.

Hamlin, 24, suffered cardiac arrest during the Bills game against the Cincinnati Bengals on Monday night and remains in critical condition in the hospital.

Philadelphia Eagles running back Miles Sanders took to Twitter and wrote, “PLEASE STOP SHARING THE VIDEO OF MY BROTHER PLEASE.”

Robert Griffin III, a former NFL player and now commentator, posted a picture of the players praying on the field after the incident: “Please don’t share the video of the Damar Hamlin play. Share this because we are all Praying for him and his family.”

Graeme Massie with the full story:

NFL players are urging people to stop posting Damar Hamlin collapse video

Tom Brady makes big donation as Damar Hamlin fundraiser passes $6m

Wednesday 4 January 2023 14:51 , Luke Baker

Tom Brady has added his name to the list of people providing generous donations to the GoFundMe page set up by fellow NFL player Damar Hamlin, with the total raised now having surged past the $6million (£5m) mark.

Hamlin, a 24-year-old safety, suffered a cardiac arrest on the field on Monday night as his Buffalo Bills side took on the Cincinnati Bengals.

He had to twice be resuscitated and remains in critical condition at hospital, with fans of both teams gathering outside UC Medical Centre to offer their support.

Those further afield have also been pledging support too though, in the form of donations to Hamlin’s fundraiser which he set up in 2020 to arrange a toy drive through his charitable foundation. The cause raised millions in the hours immediately after his collapse and is now rapidly closing in on $6m.

Several notable names from within the world of NFL have contributed, with Tampa Bay quarterback Brady headlining those. The seven-time Super Bowl winner donated $10,000 (£8,300). Other big donations include £18,000 from Robert Kraft and the New England Patriots, £12,000 from LA Rams quarterback Matthew Stafford and the single current biggest amount of $20,000 from Jason Hanold.

Tom Brady makes big donation as Damar Hamlin fundraiser passes $6m

WATCH: Damar Hamlin reacts to teammate’s neck injury in resurfaced video after collapse

Wednesday 4 January 2023 14:38 , Luke Baker

A video showing Damar Hamlin reacting to a teammate’s critical neck injury has resurfaced.

After the 24-year-old collapsed on the field on Monday night, a video was shared on social media showing Mr Hamlin in previous weeks appearing on One Bills Live speaking about the neck injury suffered by his friend and teammate Dane Jackson.

One of those who shared the video was former Bills player Andre Reed.

“I can’t even describe it, but I cherish it every second that I can,” Mr Hamlin says in the footage from September. “Every second of every day. We just had our prayer, our DB prayer we do every Wednesday. He was next to me and I just grabbed his hand a little bit harder just because ... you never know when your last day could be that you get to experience something like this. I’m cherishing every moment that I can.”

WATCH: Damar Hamlin surrounded by players after collapsing on field

Wednesday 4 January 2023 14:21 , Luke Baker

In the aftermath of his collapse on the field on Monday evening, Hamlin was surrounded by players from both teams

EXPLAINER: What happened to Damar Hamlin, the NFL player who collapsed on field?

Wednesday 4 January 2023 14:03 , Luke Baker

Here’s our full explainer on what happened to Damar Hamlin, starting from the time he collapsed on the field during the first quarter of the Buffalo Bills vs Cincinnati Bengals:

What we know after NFL player Damar Hamlin suffers cardiac arrest during game

Damar Hamlin ‘trending upwards’ but remains in a critical condition, says uncle

Wednesday 4 January 2023 13:47 , Luke Baker

Buffalo Bills safety Damar Hamlin is “trending upwards in a positive way” but remains in critical condition in hospital, says his uncle Dorrian Glenn.

Hamlin suffered a cardiac arrest on the football field following a collision with wide receiver Tee Higgins during Monday’s game against the Cincinnati Bengals.

And Glenn has detailed how Hamlin’s condition is improving with just 50 percent oxygen required, down from 100 percent.

Glenn insists the ordeal has been “heartbreaking” with his nephew still on a ventilator while sedated to help with his breathing.

Jack Rathborn with the full story:

Damar Hamlin ‘trending upwards’ but remains in a critical condition, says uncle

‘Prayers that Damar Hamlin can have the same outcome’, says former NHL star who collapsed on ice

Wednesday 4 January 2023 13:32 , Luke Baker

Chris Pronger, the former National Hockey League defenceman who collapsed and suffered a cardiac arrest when a slap shot hit him in the chest at the 1998 Stanley Cup playoffs, has sent Damar Hamlin a message of support and hopes the NFL star can recover to play again.

Pronger, who collected two Olympic gold medals for Canada, was able to continue his career, playing for more than a decade after recovering from the incident.

“Prayers that Damar Hamlin can have the same outcome that I was fortunate to have with my incident,” he wrote on Twitter.

“Our thoughts and prayers go out to Damar, his family, teammates and the greater NFL community during this incredibly scary time,” he added.

All NFL teams change Twitter logo to ‘Pray for Damar’

Wednesday 4 January 2023 13:14 , Luke Baker

All teams in the NFL on Tuesday changed their Twitter profiles to read “Pray for Damar” with an image of the Buffalo Bills player’s number 3 shirt

ESPN analyst sheds light on covering Hamlin collapse

Wednesday 4 January 2023 13:01 , Graeme Massie

ICYMI: Booger McFarland recalled the night’s shocking events in an interview with The Athleticon Tuesday.

“As I’m walking toward the set my only thought was, ‘What exactly do they want us to say?’ That’s all Adam Schefter and I were thinking,” he told the outlet.

Damar Hamlin, 24, remains in critical condition at the University of Cincinnati Medical Center after collapsing during the game on Monday night.

“I’ve hit people and been hit so many times on that field, and to see that play out where we are watching life and death play out on national television is an uncomfortable feeling,” McFarland added.

“When I saw the look on the trainers’ and doctors’ faces, I knew this was different. Then you hear they are doing CPR, which means he’s having difficulty breathing. All I could think about was life or death for this young man. That is something I never thought would happen on an NFL field.”

Shannon Sharpe berates Skip Bayless for refusing to take down Damar Hamlin tweet

Wednesday 4 January 2023 21:10 , Graeme Massie

ICYMI: Sharpe did not show up Tuesday’s Undisputed show following Hamlin’s collapse during the Monday night game.

Shannon Sharpe berates Skip Bayless for refusing to take down Damar Hamlin tweet

Skip Bayless faces furious backlash over ‘sick’ tweet after Damar Hamlin collapse

Wednesday 4 January 2023 12:44 , Luke Baker

Sports columnist Skip Bayless is facing a furious backlash over one of his tweets after Damar Hamlin of the Buffalo Bills collapsed during a game.

Hamlin was taken off the field in critical condition and taken to hospital after collapsing on the field.

“No doubt the NFL is considering postponing the rest of this game – but how?” the Fox Sports Undisputed pundit tweeted at 9.30pm on Monday, before the game was ultimately suspended. “This late in the season, a game of this magnitude is crucial to the regular-season outcome … which suddenly seems so irrelevant.”

Bayless later added that “nothing is more important than that young man’s health”.

“That was the point of my last tweet. I’m sorry if I was misunderstood but his health is all that matters. Again, everything else is irrelevant. I prayed for him and will continue to,” he added.

But there was a furious response to his initial tweet, which has been viewed over 115 million times on Twitter.

Skip Bayless’ co-host skips broadcast amid backlash over ‘sick’ Damar Hamlin tweet

Damar Hamlin resuscitated twice but now ‘trending upwards’

Wednesday 4 January 2023 12:23 , Luke Baker

Damar Hamlin had to be resuscitated twice after suffering a cardiac arrest on the field but seems to be “trending upwards in a positive way”, his uncle has said.

Hamlin has been in a critical condition in hospital following the incident that took place during Monday’s NFL game against the Cincinnati Bengals. The 24-year-old had CPR on the field after colliding with Bengals wide receiver Tee Higgins before being taken to the University of Cincinnati Medical Center.

Speaking to CNN outside the hospital, Hamlin’s uncle Dorrian Glenn said: “His heart had went out so they had to resuscitate him twice. They resuscitated him on the field before they brought him to the hospital and then they resuscitated him a second time when they got him to the hospital.

“I’m not a crier, but I’ve never cried so hard in my life. Just to know, like, my nephew basically died on the field and they brought him back to life.

“They sedated him just to give a better chance for him to just continue to heal better. We are just taking it day by day. It seems like he’s trending upwards in a positive way.”

Hamlin is said to be on a ventilator while sedated to help with his breathing.

Matthew Stafford’s spouse Kelly shares emotional message to fellow NFL wives after Damar Hamlin collapse

Wednesday 4 January 2023 21:11 , Graeme Massie

ICYMI: “To all the women who have significant others playing on that field…I’m with you,” the quarterback’s wife wrote on Instagram.

Matthew Stafford’s spouse shares message to NFL wives after Damar Hamlin collapse

Damar Hamlin’s GoFundMe nearly at $5m

Wednesday 4 January 2023 12:04 , Graeme Massie

ICYMI: The NFL player wanted to raise $2,500 to support a community toy drive, but following his collapse on Monday night donations have flooded in.

“This fundraiser was initially established to support a toy drive for Damar’s community, sponsored by the Chasing M’s Foundation. However, it has received renewed support in light of Damar’s current battle and we can’t thank all of you enough. Your generosity and compassion mean the world to us,” the account was updated to read on Tuesday.

“If you would like to show your support and contribute to Damar’s community initiatives and his current fight, this is the place to do so. This is the only current fund that is being used by the Hamlin Family.

‘Human garbage’: Charlie Kirk blasted for ‘sick’ Damar Hamlin conspiracy tweet

Wednesday 4 January 2023 11:47 , Luke Baker

Conservative talk show host Charlie Kirk was slammed for peddling an anti-vaccine conspiracy theory after Buffalo Bills safety Damar Hamlin collapsed during a game against Cincinnati Bengals on Monday night.

The 24-year-old footballer suffered a cardiac arrest and was administered CPR and a defibrillator before being taken in an ambulance to a nearby hospital where he remains in critical condition. The hit that appeared to have caused the injury came in the first quarter of the game when he was tackling Bengals receiver Tee Higgins.

Hamlin stood to his feet briefly and then collapsed.

While fans waited outside the hospital holding candles and shared posts praying for his speedy recovery, some saw it as an opportunity to suggest that a vaccine may have been the reason behind the collapse.

Mr Kirk offered his prayers for Hamlin in his previous tweets but quickly jumped the bandwagon of conspiracy theorists to say: “This is a tragic and all too familiar sight right now.”

‘Human garbage’: Charlie Kirk blasted for ‘sick’ Damar Hamlin conspiracy tweet

Noah Berlatsky: We need to call out the despicable response to Damar Hamlin’s injury

Wednesday 4 January 2023 11:34 , Luke Baker

On Monday night, football fans watched in horror as Buffalo Bills safety Damar Hamlin suffered a cardiac arrest after what looked like a routine tackle. Hamlin received CPR on the field and was taken away in an ambulance. The game was cancelled.

While most people were expressing sympathy or solidarity, conservative pundit Charlie Kirk leaped at the chance to spread conspiracy theories and medical misinformation about Covid vaccines. In doing so, he showed once again that the right’s approach to Covid is built on callous disregard for the safety of workers and the dignity of working people.

After Hamlin’s injury, Kirk tweeted: “This is a tragic and all too familiar sight right now: Athletes dropping suddenly.” That’s a reference to long-standing right-wing conspiracy theories falsely linking the deaths of athletes to the Covid vaccine. There is no evidence for these claims.

The right has developed an entire barrage of conspiratorial claims about athletes in particular because athletes are among the most vaccinated workers in the country. In the NFL, 94.4 percent of players were fully vaccinated in December 2021; in the NBA, it was 95 percent, and in the NHL, 99 percent.

Noah Berlatsky on the despicable response to Hamlin’s injury in certain quarters:

We need to call out the despicable response to Damar Hamlin’s injury | Voices

Cincinnati Bengals player tackled by Damar Hamlin receives outpouring of support

Wednesday 4 January 2023 11:17 , Luke Baker

The Cincinnati Bengals player who was involved in the incident that saw Damar Hamlin collapse has received an outpouring of support from NFL fans.

Wide receiver Tee Higgins was the player tacked by the Buffalo Bills safety before he went into cardiac arrest during the game on Monday night.

Hamlin, 24, remains in critical condition at the University of Cincinnati Medical Center and the NFL suspended the game.

Higgins himself took to Twitter to send his thoughts to Hamlin and his family.

“My prayers and thoughts go out to @HamlinIsland the Hamlin Family. I’m praying that you pull through bro,” he tweeted.

Cincinnati Bengals player tackled by Damar Hamlin receives outpouring of support

Buffalo Bills issue new statement on Damar Hamlin

Wednesday 4 January 2023 11:01 , Graeme Massie

ICYMI: “Damar Hamlin spent last night in the intensive care unit and remains there today in critical condition at the University of Cincinnati Medical Center. We are grateful and thankful for the outpouring of support we have received thus far,” the team stated on Twitter on Tuesday.

NFL players are urging people to stop posting Damar Hamlin collapse video

Wednesday 4 January 2023 10:47 , Luke Baker

Current and former NFL players are urging people to stop sharing videos of Buffalo Bills safety Damar Hamlin collapsing on the pitch.

Hamlin, 24, suffered cardiac arrest during the Bills game against the Cincinnati Bengals on Monday night and remains in critical condition in the hospital.

Philadelphia Eagles running back Miles Sanders took to Twitter and wrote, “PLEASE STOP SHARING THE VIDEO OF MY BROTHER PLEASE.”

Robert Griffin III, a former NFL player and now commentator, posted a picture of the players praying on the field after the incident: “Please don’t share the video of the Damar Hamlin play. Share this because we are all Praying for him and his family.”

Graeme Massie with the full story:

NFL players are urging people to stop posting Damar Hamlin collapse video

‘He’s a fighter’: Damar Hamlin’s family speak out after cardiac arrest

Wednesday 4 January 2023 10:33 , Luke Baker

Damar Hamlin‘s family have thanked fans for their support and praised the work of medical personnel after the NFL player suffered a cardiac arrest during a game on Monday night.

The Buffalo Bills safety collapsed to the ground during the contest with the Cincinnati Bengals shortly after making a tackle before first responders treated him on the field.

CPR was administered and Hamlin’s heartbeat restored, the team would later confirm, before he was taken from the stadium in an ambulance to the University of Cincinnati Medical Center.

The team confirmed he had been sedated and was “listed in a critical condition” with the game postponed indefinitely by the league.

“We are deeply moved by the prayers, kind words and donations from fans around the country,” Hamlin’s family wrote in a message posted on the Twitter account of the player’s marketing representative, Jordon Rooney.

‘He’s a fighter’: Damar Hamlin’s family speak out after cardiac arrest

Damar Hamlin’s uncle gives update on condition

Wednesday 4 January 2023 10:12 , Luke Baker

Damar Hamlin’s uncle, Dorrian Glenn, has been doing the media rounds and gave an update on his condition to NFL Network’s Cameron Wolfe.

“Right now, they’ve got him (Damar) on a ventilator, so they’re trying to get him to breathe on his own,” said Glenn. “We’re just taking it day by day. He’s still in the ICU, they have him sedated and they just continue to administer the medical treatment to him.

“I’m really thankful for the medical staff working on him, they’ve been truly awesome, helping him with his recovery.”

Glenn went on to add: “A lot of people don’t get to see how loved they are while they’re alive, so for him to have a situation where he could have been taken away and he has a chance to come back and see all that love that he got.”

Tom Brady makes big donation as Damar Hamlin fundraiser nears $6m

Wednesday 4 January 2023 09:53 , Luke Baker

Tom Brady has added his name to the list of people providing generous donations to the GoFundMe page set up by fellow NFL player Damar Hamlin, with the total raised now having surged past the $5.5million ($4.6m) mark.

Hamlin, a 24-year-old safety, suffered a cardiac arrest on the field on Monday night as his Buffalo Bills side took on the Cincinnati Bengals. He had to twice be resuscitated and remains in critical condition at hospital, with fans of both teams gathering outside UC Medical Centre to offer their support.

Those further afield have also been pledging support too though, in the form of donations to Hamlin’s fundraiser which he set up in 2020 to arrange a toy drive through his charitable foundation. The cause raised millions in the hours immediately after his collapse and is now rapidly closing in on $6m.

Several notable names from within the world of NFL have contributed, with Tampa Bay quarterback Brady headlining those. The seven-time Super Bowl winner donated $10,000 (£8,300).

Tom Brady makes big donation as Damar Hamlin fundraiser nears $6m

Bills-Bengals game will ‘not be resumed this week'

Wednesday 4 January 2023 09:29 , Graeme Massie

ICYMI: The NFL announced on Tuesday that the suspended game between the Buffalo Bills and the Cincinnati Bengals will “not be resumed this week” following its suspension for the Damar Hamlin medical emergency.

The league says that no decision has been made on the game being resumed at a later date. No changes have been made for week 18 games this week.

The Damar Hamlin incident is a sobering reminder for us all

Wednesday 4 January 2023 09:26 , Luke Baker

The air that had come over Paycor Stadium in Cincinatti was eerie. Players, fans, and coaches alike, from both sides, were completely and utterly disturbed by what they had just seen. Yet somehow, word had gotten out that the NFL had notified the involved parties that play would resume in five minutes.

Shortly thereafter, play was announced as “Temporarily Suspended” until further notice. Meanwhile, an update had made its rounds online that Hamlin was with a pulse, but unable to breathe on his own.

Confusion, devastation, panic - all these emotions visibly plagued the players and coaches, as they remained on field, pacing back and forth, conversing, even praying in response to what they just saw. On official broadcasts, no word was provided on the injury.

As we as a society dealt with the trauma of watching a perfectly fit and healthy 24-year-old human collapse to the floor, in complete spontaneity, conversation swirled online. From stoking suspicions about vaccine-related conditions to recalling similar episodes of cardiac arrest in pro sports from years past, Monday night’s incident left almost all spectators agreeing on one thing - play should not continue.

Andy Gorel discusses how Monday night’s incident made us feel

The Damar Hamlin incident is a sobering reminder for us all

All of us who watch this brutal – but thrilling – sport are responsible for what befell Damar Hamlin

Wednesday 4 January 2023 09:01 , Luke Baker

You should watch it. It is really disturbing. And that is the point.

After 24-year Damar Hamlin of the Buffalo Bills makes the clattering tackle, he quickly gets to his feet. He seems to be fine. But after two steps, he collapses, tumbling to the pitch, unable to move.

We know that medical personnel who rushed on to pitch had to restart the player’s heart, before he was evacuated by ambulance and taken to hospital, as players from both the Bills and the Cincinnati Bengals sat or prayed, utterly distraught.

The young man was said to be a critical condition at the University of Cincinnati Medical Centre, where he has been sedated and is undergoing “further testing and treatment”.

There was flood of emotional messages of support from fans and players alike, wishing Hamlin a swift recovery, not least from Tee Higgins, the Bengals player he clattered into. “I’m praying that you pull through bro. Love,” he wrote on Twitter.

But is that it? Is that all that is going to happen? Is that the only soul-searching that is going to take place after this game, that was reportedly only called off after the accident, after the intervention of the two coaches.

Andrew Buncombe gives his take on the Damar Hamlin incident:

All of us who watched what happened to Damar Hamlin are responsible | Opinion

What is commotio cordis? Traumatic injury that may have led to Damar Hamlin’s cardiac arrest

Wednesday 4 January 2023 08:40 , Luke Baker

Damar Hamlin was taken to hospital in critical condition after the Buffalo Bills safety collapsed on the field after a tackle during a game against the Cincinnati Bengals.

The team said in a statement that the 24-year-old had suffered cardiac arrest on Monday night. Mr Hamlin received CPR on the field before he was taken to a hospital.

“When he was hit in that chest anteriorly, as hard as he was, it’s a phenomenon known as commotio cordis. This is when you get traumatic injury to the anterior chest, just as the heart is getting prepared to have another beat,” Dr Anthony Cardillo told CNN.

“It’s during that repolarization phase and the electromechanical activity of the heart ... the heart is fuelled by electrical impulse,” Dr Cardillo noted. “If you have trauma at an exact moment, when that heart is getting ready to repolarize and beat again, you will go into cardiac arrest.”

What is commotio cordis? Injury that may have led to Damar Hamlin’s cardiac arrest

Damar Hamlin had to be resuscitated twice by medics, says family

Wednesday 4 January 2023 08:20 , Luke Baker

Damar Hamlin had to be resuscitated twice after suffering a cardiac arrest during the Buffalo Bills game against the Cincinnati Bengals, according to his uncle.

Hamlin, 24, remains in critical condition in a Cincinnati hospital after the shocking incident unfolded on live television on Monday night, forcing the game to be suspended.

“His heart had went out so they had to resuscitate him twice. They resuscitated him on the field before they brought him to the hospital and then they resuscitated him a second time when they got him to the hospital,” Hamlin’s uncle, Dorrian Glenn told CNN’s Adrienne Broaddus outside of the hospital.

Mr Glenn thanked the medical staff for working on his nephew. “If not for them my nephew probably wouldn’t be here,” he said.

And he added: “I’m just glad he’s still alive and able to fight and trying to get better and recover. I’m not a crier, but I’ve never cried so hard in my life. Just to know like my nephew basically died on the field and they brought him back to life.”

Damar Hamlin had to be resuscitated twice by medics, says family

NFL players union makes statement on Hamlin

Wednesday 4 January 2023 07:06 , Graeme Massie

ICYMI: The NFL Players Association issued a statement on Tuesday, saying “Our focus remains on Damar.”

The union stated that it has been in touch with both teams to make sure “that Bills and Bengals players have every resource” available to them following the shocking incident on Monday night.

The NFLPA also encouraged players to reach out if they felt the need to speak to someone and provided links to the union’s mental health counselling resources.

Niagara Falls illuminated in blue in show of support to Damar Hamlin

Wednesday 4 January 2023 06:23 , Shweta Sharma

Niagara Falls and Buffalo City Hall were lit up in blue on Tuesday night to show support for recovering athlete Damar Hamlin.

Niagara Falls USA and Niagara Parks said the falls were illuminated for about 15 minutes at 9pm.

The falls, located on the US-Canada border, were one of the many sites across the country that were lit in the colours of the Buffalo Bills after Hamlin collapsed on Monday night.

Cincinnati Bengals player tackled by Damar Hamlin receives outpouring of support

Wednesday 4 January 2023 06:05 , Graeme Massie

ICYMI: Wide receiver Tee Higgins was tackled by the Buffalo Bills player before the latter went into cardiac arrest.

Cincinnati Bengals player tackled by Damar Hamlin receives outpouring of support

Damar Hamlin remains in critical condition in intensive care after cardiac arrest

Wednesday 4 January 2023 05:03 , Graeme Massie

ICYMI: The safety had CPR on the field after colliding with Bengals wide receiver Tee Higgins before being taken to hospital.

Damar Hamlin remains in critical condition in intensive care after cardiac arrest

Damar Hamlin’s jersey becomes one of the highest selling on Fanatics

Wednesday 4 January 2023 04:30 , Shweta Sharma

Damar Hamlin’s jersey number 3 is one of highest selling jerseys on Fanatics, a sports apparel company, according to Pro Football Focus.

All the proceeds from Hamlin’s jersey sales will be donated to his GoFundMe toy drive. It has raised $5.6m (£4.7m) in 24 hours since his collapse.

The football player launched donations to a toy drive in 2020. Donation money from the drive went to toys for children in need in his hometown of McKees Rocks, Pennsylvania.

We need to call out the despicable response to Damar Hamlin’s injury

Wednesday 4 January 2023 04:04 , Graeme Massie

ICYMI: Conservative pundit Charlie Kirk leaped at the chance to spread conspiracy theories and medical misinformation.

We need to call out the despicable response to Damar Hamlin’s injury | Voices

All NFL teams change Twitter profile pictures to ‘Pray for Damar'

Wednesday 4 January 2023 03:40 , Shweta Sharma

All 32 teams of the NFL have changed their Twitter profile photos to show support for Buffalo Bills player Damar Hamlin who suffered a cardiac arrest during Monday night’s game.

The profile pictures now read “Pray for Damar” along with his jersey number 3.

NFL give update on Bills vs Bengals rescheduling after Damar Hamlin cardiac arrest

Wednesday 4 January 2023 03:04 , Graeme Massie

ICYMI: The game was postponed on Monday night after the Bills safety collapsed to the ground during the first quarter.

Luke Baker has the details.

NFL give update on Bills vs Bengals rescheduling after Damar Hamlin cardiac arrest

Skip Bayless apologises for hosting ‘Undisputed’ show following Hamlin injury

Wednesday 4 January 2023 02:02 , Graeme Massie

ICYMI: The Fox Sports host has been widely criticised for a tweet he made in the moments after Buffalo Bills safety Damar Hamlin suffered a cardiac arrest on the field on Monday night.

During the incident, Bayless tweeted: “No doubt the NFL is considering postponing the rest of this game - but how? This late in the season, a game of this magnitude is crucial to the regular-season outcome ... which suddenly seems so irrelevant.”

Bayless later claimed that his original tweet had been misunderstood.

“Nothing is more important than that young man’s health. That was the point of my last tweet. I’m sorry if that was misunderstood but his health is all that matters,” Bayless tweeted.

But following the controversy his co-host Shannon Sharpe did not appear on the show on Tuesday.

At the beginning of Tuesday’s Undisputed , Bayless did not mention his tweet but seemed emotional and said he had carried on with the show after “barely sleeping on it.”

“I apologise for what for what we’re going to set out to do here today, if it offends anyone because we’re going to try to do the show pretty much as usual we do the show,” he said.

“I’ll admit up front that I’m still shook up what happened last night to Damar Hamlin. In fact, I’m still wrecked. In fact, I’m not sure I’m capable of doing this show today.”

Damar Hamlin had to be resuscitated twice by medics, says family

Wednesday 4 January 2023 01:03 , Graeme Massie

Hamlin, 24, remains in critical condition in a Cincinnati hospital after the shocking incident.

Damar Hamlin had to be resuscitated twice by medics, says family

NFL reporter gives update on Hamlin’s condition

Wednesday 4 January 2023 00:32 , Graeme Massie

Received word this evening that Damar Hamlin’s “breathing is improving.” We continue to pray,” tweeted Josina Anderson of CBS Sports.

Buffalo Sabres players wear Hamlin shirts to NHL game

Tuesday 3 January 2023 23:31 , Graeme Massie

NFL players are urging people to stop posting Damar Hamlin collapse video

Tuesday 3 January 2023 23:11 , Graeme Massie

The Buffalo Bills player went into cardiac arrest after getting tackled in a game against the Cincinnati Bengals this week.

NFL players are urging people to stop posting Damar Hamlin collapse video

NFL analyst stops to pray for Damar Hamlin live on air

Tuesday 3 January 2023 22:45 , Graeme Massie

NFL analyst Dan Orlovsky stopped to pray out loud for Damar Hamlin live on air.

Orlovsky, a former NFL quarterback, said he had heard a lot about praying for the injured Buffalo Bills player and wanted to do so publicly on ESPN’s NFL Live show.

All of us who watch this brutal – but thrilling – sport are responsible for what befell Damar Hamlin

Tuesday 3 January 2023 22:21 , Graeme Massie

NFL long accused of ignoring dangers of sport and controvesy riven by race and class, writes Andrew Buncombe.

All of us who watched what happened to Damar Hamlin are responsible | Opinion

What is commotio cordis? Traumatic injury that may have led to Damar Hamlin’s cardiac arrest

Tuesday 3 January 2023 21:54 , Graeme Massie

Emergency room specialist says trauma likely happened just as heart was about to beat again.

Gustaf Kilander has the story.

What is commotio cordis? Injury that may have led to Damar Hamlin’s cardiac arrest

Joe Biden praying for Damar Hamlin, says White House.

Tuesday 3 January 2023 21:14 , Graeme Massie

“The president has seen the horrific news of Damar Hamlin’s cardiac arrest during the game last night — it was, as I said, horrific and millions of people saw that across the country,” Mr Biden’s press secretary, Karine Jean-Pierre, said in a Tuesday briefing.

“We hope his condition and his health improves quickly, and like the rest of the nation, our thoughts and prayers are with him, his family and his teammates.”

Buffalo Bills change Twitter profile picture

Tuesday 3 January 2023 20:35 , Graeme Massie

The Buffalo Bills updated their Twitter profile on Tuesday and added an image of Damad Hamlin’s number 3 jersey.

“#NewProfilePic,” the team tweeted as the 24-year-old remains in critical condition in a Cincinnati hospital after suffering cardiac arrest on Monday night during a game.

All NFL teams change Twitter logo to ‘Pray for Damar'

Tuesday 3 January 2023 20:14 , Graeme Massie

All teams in the NFL on Tuesday changed their Twitter profiles to read “Pray for Damar” with an image of the Buffalo Bills player’s number 3 shirt

Bills will not hold media session on Tuesday

Tuesday 3 January 2023 20:05 , Graeme Massie

“Due to the ongoing situation with Damar Hamlin, the Bills will not hold any media availability today,” the Bills said.

Niagara Falls to light up blue for Damar Hamlin

Tuesday 3 January 2023 19:29 , Graeme Massie

The falls will be turned blue between 9pm and 9.15pm ET in a show of support for the nearby Buffalo Bills and injured safety Damar Hamlin.

NFL team cancel media sessions following Hamlin incident

Tuesday 3 January 2023 18:16 , Graeme Massie

Multiple NFL teams have cancelled their Tuwesdya media sessions following the Damar Hamlin incident, with the player remaining in critical condition in hospital.

The Houston Texans and Indianapolis Colts were among the teams that decided against interviews as Hamlin remains in critical condition.

Pittsburgh Steelers. Steelers head coach Mike Tomlin did speak with reporters on Tuesday and said that he has “a lot of respect and love” for Pittsburgh native Hamlin, who he has known since he was 12-years-old.

Hamlin’s toy drive passes $4m mark

Tuesday 3 January 2023 18:05 , Graeme Massie

The 2020 GoFundMe organised Damar Hamlin has now crossed the $4m mark following his collapse during the Buffalo Bills and Cincinnati Bengals game on Monday night.

More than 152,000 donations have been made as the player remains in critical condition after suffering a cardiac arrest during the NFL game.

Damar Hamlin - recap: What happened to Buffalo Bills star?

Tuesday 3 January 2023 17:30 , Jamie Braidwood

Hamlin was hurt while tackling Bengals receiver Tee Higgins on a seemingly routine play that didn’t appear unusually violent.

Higgins was running with the ball on a 13-yard pass from Joe Burrow when he led with his right shoulder, hitting Hamlin in the chest. Hamlin then wrapped his arms around Higgins’ shoulders and helmet to drag him down. Hamlin quickly got to his feet, appeared to adjust his face mask with his right hand, and then fell backward about three seconds later and lay motionless.

Hamlin was down for 19 minutes while receiving medical attention. WXIX-TV in Cincinnati reported that Hamlin required an automated external defibrillator (AED) in addition to CPR on the field.

Team-mates surrounded Hamlin, shielding him from public view. Many were weeping and praying while Hamlin was treated on the field by team and independent medical personnel and local paramedics. He was taken by ambulance to University of Cincinnati Medical Center. Team-mate Stefon Diggs later went to visit Hamlin at the hospital while fans of both teams gathered outside, holding lit candles and praying.

A Buffalo Bills statement then said: “Damar Hamlin suffered a cardiac arrest following a hit in our game versus the Bengals. His heartbeat was restored on the field and he was transferred to the UC Medical Center for further testing and treatment. He is currently sedated and listed in critical condition.”

Cincinnati Bengals owner Mike Brown releases statement

Tuesday 3 January 2023 17:18 , Ben Burrows

Cincinnati Bengals owner Mike Brown has released a statement after last night’s events.

“First and foremost, the Bengals continue to send thoughts and prayers to Damar Hamlin and his family,” it reads. “Our hearts are with everyone in this unprecedented time – what we can do is support one another.

“Last night was supposed to be a great night for the NFL and a great showcase for our hometown. Instead, the human side of our sport became paramount … and in that moment, humanity and love rose to the forefront.

“As medical personnel undertook extraordinary measures, both teams demonstrated respect and compassion while fans in the stadium and people around the country bolstered the support for Damar and love for each other.

“The Bengals are thankful for the love and compassion shown by all. Praying for Damar.”

‘Prayers that Damar Hamlin can have the same outcome’, says former NHL star who collapsed on ice

Tuesday 3 January 2023 17:15 , Jamie Braidwood

Chris Pronger, the former National Hockey League defenceman who collapsed and suffered a cardiac arrest when a slap shot hit him in the chest at the 1998 Stanley Cup playoffs, has sent Damar Hamlin a message of support and hopes the NFL star can recover to play again.

Pronger, who collected two Olympic gold medals for Canada, was able to continue his career, playing for more than a decade after recovering from the incident.

“Prayers that Damar Hamlin can have the same outcome that I was fortunate to have with my incident,” he wrote on Twitter.

“Our thoughts and prayers go out to Damar, his family, teammates and the greater NFL community during this incredibly scary time,” he added.

Damar Hamlin reacts to teammate’s neck injury in resurfaced video after collapse

Tuesday 3 January 2023 17:00 , Jamie Braidwood

A video showing Damar Hamlin reacting to a teammate’s critical neck injury has resurfaced.

After the 24-year-old collapsed on the field on Monday night, a video was shared on social media showing Mr Hamlin in previous weeks appearing on One Bills Live speaking about the neck injury suffered by his friend and teammate Dane Jackson.

One of those who shared the video was former Bills player Andre Reed.

“I can’t even describe it, but I cherish it every second that I can,” Mr Hamlin says in the footage from September. “Every second of every day. We just had our prayer, our DB prayer we do every Wednesday. He was next to me and I just grabbed his hand a little bit harder just because ... you never know when your last day could be that you get to experience something like this. I’m cherishing every moment that I can.”

NEW: Statement from the family of Damar Hamlin

Tuesday 3 January 2023 16:50 , Jamie Braidwood

Jordon Rooney, Damar Hamlin’s friend and marketing representative, has published a statement on behalf of the Hamlin family. It reads:

"On behalf of our family, we want to express our sincere gratitude for the love and support shown to Damar during this challenging time. We are deeply moved by the prayers, kind words, and donations from fans around the country.

“We also want to acknowledge the dedicated first responders and healthcare professionals at the University of Cincinnati Medical Center who have provided exceptional care to Damar. We feel so blessed to be part of the Buffalo Bills organization and to have their support.

“We also want to thank Coach Taylor and the Bengals for everything they've done. Your generosity and compassion mean the world to us.

“Please keep Damar in your prayers. We will release updates as soon as we have them."

Skip Bayless’ broadcasting partner skips Undisputed show after Damar Hamlin comments

Tuesday 3 January 2023 16:45 , Jamie Braidwood

Meanwhile, Skip Bayless’ broadcasting partner, Shannon Sharpe, was not on air this morning for their Undisputed show on Fox Sports.

It follows Bayless’ comments in the aftermath of Damar Hamlin’s collapse, in which Bayless questioned why the NFL would postpone the Bills-Bengals match.

Bayless appeared on the Undisputed show as normal this morning, where he did not immediately apologise for the comments amid a fierce public backlack.

But Sharpe was not in attendance, with Bayless adding that the commentator would return tomorrow.

Skip Bayless faces furious backlash over ‘sick’ tweet after Damar Hamlin collapse

Tuesday 3 January 2023 16:30 , Jamie Braidwood

Sports columnist Skip Bayless is facing a furious backlash over one of his tweets after Damar Hamlin of the Buffalo Bills collapsed during a game.

Hamlin was taken off the field in critical condition and taken to hospital after collapsing on the field.

“No doubt the NFL is considering postponing the rest of this game – but how?” the Fox Sports Undisputed pundit tweeted at 9.30pm on Monday, before the game was ultimately suspended. “This late in the season, a game of this magnitude is crucial to the regular-season outcome … which suddenly seems so irrelevant.”

Bayless later added that “nothing is more important than that young man’s health”.

“That was the point of my last tweet. I’m sorry if I was misunderstood but his health is all that matters. Again, everything else is irrelevant. I prayed for him and will continue to,” he added.

But there was a furious response to his initial tweet, which has been viewed over 115 million times on Twitter.

Skip Bayless faces furious backlash over ‘sick’ tweet after Damar Hamlin collapse

Damar Hamlin: Tom Brady sends message of support to Buffalo Bills star

Tuesday 3 January 2023 16:15 , Jamie Braidwood

Tom Brady, the seven-time Super Bowl champion widely regarded as the greatest NFL quarterback of all time, has sent Damar Hamlin and his family a message of support as he remains in a critical condition in hospital.

“We’re praying for Damar and his family this morning in Tampa,” Brady posted on Twitter. “Moments like this put into perspective what it means to play this game we love. Thankful for our communities in Cincinnati and Buffalo for the overwhelming level of care and support I know they’ll continue to provide.”

Damar Hamlin’s charity GoFundMe tops $3.2m hours after horror on-field collapse

Tuesday 3 January 2023 16:00 , Jamie Braidwood

Supporters reacted with outpouring of donations to Buffalo Bills safety Damar Hamlin‘s charity after he collapsed on the field during a game with Cincinnati Bengals on Monday night.

Following his collapse, his charity - The Chasing M’s Foundation Community Toy Drive - on GoFundMe has received over a half-million dollars in nearly 30 minutes. The drive’s initial goal was $2,500 but as of Tuesday morning it had reached over $3.2m with the number constantly rising.

“As I embark on my journey to the NFL, I will never forget where I come from and I am committed to using my platform to positively impact the community that raised me,” the note by Hamlin on the fund page said.

He continued: “I created The Chasing M’s Foundation as a vehicle that will allow me to deliver that impact, and the first program is the 2020 Community Toy Drive.

“This campaign gives you the opportunity to contribute to our first initiative and positively impact children who have been hardest hit by the pandemic. 100 per cent of the funds raised will go toward the purchase of toys for kids in need.”

Damar Hamlin: ‘Family is my whole world’

Tuesday 3 January 2023 15:45 , Jamie Braidwood

Damar Hamlin on the importance of family: “My mom, my dad, my little brother, that’s pretty much my whole world. Outside of any other thing going on, my life revolves around them. I don’t really do too much without my mom and dad’s opinion, whether I take it or whether I don’t. Sometimes I just want to hear it. It’s how I was raised and it’s something I’m big on.”