Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes, 15, wears the Hamlin Strong sweatshirt from Dummer Hamlin before facing the Las Vegas Raiders at an NFL football game on Saturday, January 7, 2023 in Las Vegas, Nevada. to warm up. (AP Photo/Jeff Lewis)
Kansas City Chiefs wide receiver Juju Smith-Schuster, 9, wears Dummer Hamlin’s Love Dummer shirt before facing the Las Vegas Raiders in an NFL football game in Las Vegas, Nevada, Saturday, January 7, 2023. to warm up. (AP Photo/Jeff Lewis)
ORCHARD PARK, N.Y. — Doctors confirmed Dummer Hamlin’s neurological function on Saturday as Buffalo Bills safety continues his recovery after having to resuscitate him on the field at a game in Cincinnati on Monday. Described as “excellent.”
In providing a daily update on Hamlin, Bills said the player continues to breathe on his own but is in critical condition at the University of Cincinnati Medical Center. Hamlin took a big step in his recovery when he was taken off the ventilator on Friday and demonstrated the ability to speak.
The 24-year-old also appeared in a short live video call for his teammates on Friday, giving several hand signs and saying, “I love you boys.”
Hamlin went into cardiac arrest after what appeared to be a routine tackle in the first quarter against the Bengals on Monday night, causing his heart to stop. The game was initially suspended before being officially canceled later in the week.
By hosting the New England Patriots, the Bills plan to pay tribute to the first responders and medical staff who treated Hamlin and the players as they wrapped up the season on Sunday.
The NFL will also show support for Hamlin in all Week 18 games starting Saturday afternoon. This includes a pregame support moment, Hamlin’s No. 3 paint at the 30-yard line, and a pregame shirt with “Love for Dummer 3.” Bills also wears a “3” jersey patch.
On Saturday, the Steelers paid tribute to Pittsburgh-area native Hamlin by delivering toys, books, and educational materials to Kelly & Nina’s daycare. Fans, players and team owners also donated to her Hamlin’s Chasing M’s Foundation, which raised more than $8.2 million for her by Saturday afternoon.
