Buffalo Bills safety Damar Hamlin has been named the recipient of the 2023 George Halas Award, the Pro Football Writers of America announced Monday.
The award is given annually to the NFL player, coach, or staff member who overcomes the most odds to succeed.
Adversity defined the final days of 2022 and early 2023 for Hamlin, who went into cardiac arrest after making a tackle during the Bills’ game at Cincinnati during Week 17. He was resuscitated on the field and transferred to Cincinnati Medical Center. University of Cincinnati, where he was initially treated.
He has been cleared to play this season and told reporters on April 18 that he intends to return to football.
“This was a life-changing event, but it’s not the end of my story,” said Hamlin, 25. “I plan to return to the NFL.”
Hamlin becomes the 55th recipient of the Halas Award and the second member of the Bills, joining Kevin Everett (2008).
Other 2023 finalists for the award included New York Giants running back Saquon Barkley, San Francisco 49ers/Carolina Panthers running back Christian McCaffrey, Washington Commanders running back Brian Robinson Jr. and quarterback of the Seattle Seahawks, Geno Smith.
Commanders head coach Ron Rivera won the award in 2022 after his battle with cancer.
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