Damar Hamlin Signs One-Year Extension to Stay with the Bills
Safety Damar Hamlin has officially re-signed with the Buffalo Bills, agreeing to a one-year contract extension on Thursday. Hamlin, who emerged as a starting safety in 2024, started 14 games and played a crucial role on defense.
For Hamlin, staying in Buffalo was an easy choice.
“It feels great to be back,” Hamlin said. “Buffalo is home. It’s where I’ve spent my entire pro career, and I’m deeply connected to this place. If I can, I’d love to play here for my whole career.”
In 2024, Hamlin established himself as a key defensive contributor. He finished third on the team in total tackles with 89 and tied for the team lead in interceptions with two. His first career pick came during a Monday Night Football matchup against the Jaguars in Week 3. He also forced a game-changing fumble on Lamar Jackson in the Divisional Round that helped swing momentum in the Bills’ favor.
Hamlin’s journey back to the field was inspiring. Less than two years removed from a life-threatening cardiac arrest in 2023, he returned in a full-time role and thrived.
“Last year felt like I was taking the training wheels off,” he said. “Coming back from literally dying on the field to starting again and playing a full season—it was a huge step. Now I’m ready to build off that and see how far I can go.”
Although several teams expressed interest in him during free agency, Hamlin chose to remain with the team that has stood by him.
“I had interest from other teams, and I’m grateful for that,” Hamlin shared. “But this is the place I know. I understand the system, I’ve built relationships here, and I believe I can be a leader on this team.”
Heading into his fifth NFL season, Hamlin has appeared in 48 games and compiled 184 tackles, two interceptions, nine pass breakups, a forced fumble, and a recovery. He credited defensive coordinator Bobby Babich and safeties coach Joe Danna for their impact on his growth last season.
“Bobby Babich was the one who believed in me from the beginning,” Hamlin said. “And Coach Danna has been a rock in the safeties room—honest, supportive, and someone who really trusts his players.”
Hamlin also shared how happy his family is with the decision to stay in Buffalo, while they build a new home in Pittsburgh.
“My family’s been by my side every step of the way,” he said. “We’re building a home for them in Pittsburgh, and life’s good for us right now. I’m just excited for what’s ahead.”
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