Bills Safety Damar Hamlin Sends Cryptic Message Amid Roster Criticism
Buffalo Bills safety Damar Hamlin has addressed his critics head-on with a message of determination.
As the Bills have strengthened their safety lineup this offseason, Hamlin has faced increased scrutiny, with some speculating that he may not make the final roster cut. In response, Hamlin took to social media to deliver a cryptic yet resolute message.
“Heard all about how they want me to lose but I’m W, Due for a win,” Hamlin wrote on X.
While Hamlin didn’t explicitly name his detractors, the timing of his message suggests it was directed at those who doubt his ability to secure a spot on the roster this summer.
Insiders Predict End to Tenure With the Bills
It seems Damar Hamlin is facing uncertainty regarding his future with the Buffalo Bills, with some insiders suggesting he’s in a precarious position.
In a post-draft analysis by The Athletic’s Joe Buscaglia, he predicted that Hamlin might struggle to secure a spot on the final 53-man roster and could even end up on the trade block. Buscaglia mentioned, “Hamlin looks like he’s on the outside looking in on the roster this year. The Bills trading him at some point before the season would not be a surprise, either.”
However, recent reports offer a more optimistic view of Hamlin’s performance. Reporter Alex Brasky highlighted Hamlin’s strong showing at the team’s June 4 practice and his impressive performances during OTAs. Brasky noted, “Damar Hamlin continues to make plays at #Bills OTAs,” and cited a specific play where Hamlin displayed his skills in coverage and contributed to an interception.
Heard all about how they want me to lose but I’m W, Due for a win 👑
— 𝐃𝐚𝐦𝐚𝐫 𝐇𝐚𝐦𝐥𝐢𝐧 (@HamlinIsland) June 3, 2024
Hamlin’s journey with the Bills has been tumultuous. After initially playing mostly on special teams in his rookie season, he was thrust into a starting role in his second season due to injuries to key safeties. Despite performing well, he endured a setback when he suffered cardiac arrest following a hard hit in a game against the Cincinnati Bengals. After a lengthy recovery process, he returned for the 2023 season but saw reduced playing time, primarily on special teams.
Ngl it don’t feel normal coming out the house without a hoodie on in Buffalo 😂. It’s like everyday I don’t trust it.
— 𝐃𝐚𝐦𝐚𝐫 𝐇𝐚𝐦𝐥𝐢𝐧 (@HamlinIsland) June 4, 2024
Bills Add Talent at Safety
The Buffalo Bills experienced significant changes in their safety room this offseason, losing both Micah Hyde and Jordan Poyer to free agency. However, they made notable additions that could present challenges for Damar Hamlin’s roster spot.
One key acquisition was veteran safety Mike Edwards, signed in free agency. Edwards, a two-time Super Bowl champion, is poised for a starting role once he overcomes a shoulder injury. CBS Sports highlighted that Edwards has a good chance of starting at free safety, especially with the uncertainty surrounding Micah Hyde’s future due to long-standing neck issues. Even if Hyde returns, Edwards, being younger and healthier, may be the preferred starter for the Bills.
Furthermore, the Bills used a second-round draft pick on Utah safety Cole Bishop, adding another talented player to the mix. With Edwards potentially occupying a starting role and Bishop entering the fray as a highly touted prospect, the competition for roster spots in the safety room becomes even more intense, making it challenging for Hamlin to secure his place on the team.