Buffalo Bills safety Damar Hamlin has made remarkable progress in his recovery after suffering a cardiac arrest on Monday night, according to an ESPN report.
His breathing tube was removed overnight at the University of Cincinnati Medical Center and he has since been able to speak with his care team, family, and teammates.
During a Friday team meeting, Hamlin even FaceTimed with his teammates, saying “Love you, boys.”
According to the physicians, Hamlin’s neurological function remains intact and they hope he can soon return home with his family.
The cause of his cardiac arrest is currently unknown.
On Monday, Hamlin collapsed following a tackle of Cincinnati Bengals wide receiver Tee Higgins.
CPR was administered to him on the field for several minutes before he was transported to the hospital by ambulance, receiving oxygen en route.
Dr. William Knight IV credited the quick medical response with saving Hamlin’s life, noting that a physician was by his side within a minute of the collapse and recognized that he did not have a pulse.
In support of Hamlin, the NFL and the Bills have asked merchandise partner Fanatics to produce 150 T-shirts for each home team that say “Love for Damar.”
These shirts will be shared with the visiting teams and worn during pregame warm-ups on Sunday, when the Bills play the New England Patriots at home.