Just over a year and a half ago, Hamlin suffered a cardiac arrest episode on January 2, 2023 in a game against the Cincinnati Bengals. Hamlin was out of the hospital just days after and began his road to recovery. Since then, the safety has participated in a countless number of practices and has one NFL season under his belt.

“What else can’t this young man do?” Sean McDermott said when asked how impressed he was with Hamlin’s efforts.

McDermott said Hamlin earned the starting spot because of his consistent efforts.

“I think it’s consistency and opportunity,” McDermott added. “The opportunity that was there, he took advantage of it and was consistent. (He) built a certain level of rapport with T-Rapp, and that’s important as well at the safety position.”

Since being drafted by Buffalo in 2021, Hamlin has made 13 starts and played in 34 games. The safety totaled 88 tackles, six tackles for loss, three quarterback hits and one and a half sack during the season (2022) he made 13 starts.

McDermott describes Hamlin’s journey from recovery to starter as one that’s been incredible to witness.

“It’s one thing to come back off of an ACL or a broken bone. It’s another thing to come back off of what he came back off of,” McDermott said. “Let alone just to decide to play football, contact football in full pads at the NFL level. I don’t think I need to say anything more. It’s incredible.

“I think God’s hands have been on Damar and his family and will continue to be. We’re just extremely proud and full of gratitude to watch him go through what he’s went through and where he is now.”

Sunday will mark Hamlin’s first start since the 2022 season.