Damien Harris suffers neck injury in game against Giants
Buffalo Bills running back Damien Harris was taken to the hospital in an ambulance after suffering a neck injury in the second quarter of the game against the New York Giants on Sunday night. Harris was tackled by Giants linebacker Blake Martinez and stayed down on the field for several minutes. He was eventually loaded onto a stretcher and put in the ambulance, which had the number three jersey of his teammate Damar Hamlin on the windows.
Damar Hamlin’s near-death experience last year
Hamlin, who plays safety for the Bills, collapsed and almost died on the field 10 months ago when he suffered cardiac arrest during a game against the Los Angeles Chargers. He was revived by the medical staff and taken to the hospital, where he underwent surgery to implant a defibrillator in his chest. He made a remarkable recovery and returned to play this season, wearing a special protective vest under his jersey.
Hamlin’s reaction to Harris’ injury
Hamlin, who was on the sideline when Harris was injured, looked distraught and shocked as he watched his teammate being taken away in an ambulance that bore his jersey. He could be seen with his hands over his face and tears in his eyes. He later tweeted: “Praying for my brother Damien Harris. Love you bro. You’re a warrior.” He also thanked the fans for their support and prayers.
Harris’ condition and prognosis
The Bills later posted on their official Twitter account that Harris had movement in his arms and legs and was undergoing tests at the hospital. They also said that he gave a thumbs up as he left the field. Coach Sean McDermott told reporters after the game, which the Bills won 14-9, that Harris was seemingly heading in a good direction. “It’s my understanding he has full movement,” McDermott said. “Fortunate that he is seemingly heading in a good direction, with the reports we are getting. So I am very thankful to God for that.”
Fans’ reaction to the ambulance with Hamlin’s jersey
The ambulance with Hamlin’s jersey on it drew mixed reactions from NFL fans on social media. Some praised the Bills for honoring Hamlin’s comeback story and showing solidarity with their players. Others found it weird and creepy, as if Hamlin was dead or had something to do with Harris’ injury. Some also questioned if Hamlin had consented to have his jersey displayed on the ambulance.
