Damar Hamlin wants to finish his NFL career where it all started
The NFL safety still has one year left in his Buffalo Bills contract
A native of Pennsylvania with deep ties in Pittsburgh, Buffalo Bills safety Damar Hamlin is thinking about his NFL future as he approaches the last year of his rookie deal.
But one thing is unmistakably true: he wants to go back to the starting point and wear the black and gold of the Hamlin: It would be a dream to retire from the Steelers.
Hamlin has strong links to Pittsburgh, having attended Central Catholic High School and then excelling as a great safety for the Pitt Panthers.
In his heart, Hamlin wants to return home, even though he is now committed to the Bills.
Hamlin voiced his thoughts after seeing Pitt defeat Virginia Tech recently while in Pittsburgh, adding, “I think ending my career, finishing as a Pittsburgh Steeler would be a dream.”
He said, “You know I was at the stadium because I played at Pitt. Finishing my career as a player would be a dream come true, since I played at Heinz Field between WPIAL titles and Pitt for maybe eight years straight.
“Steeler.”
Resilience and drive have been hallmarks of Hamlin’s incredible NFL career.
Due to his incredible comeback from a terrifying cardiac attack on the field, he came extremely close to winning the NFL Comeback Player of the Year title in 2023, placing second at the NFL Honors presentation.
Hamlin’s attitude seems unfazed by the loss, as he keeps making an influence on and off the field.
He had two tackles during the regular season and two more during the postseason the previous year. During his tenure with the Bills, he participated in 34 games, 13 of which he started, all in 2022. He finished with 95 tackles, three tackles for a loss, and four passes defensed.
Following his incredible return, Hamlin wishes to continue giving back.
For Hamlin, going back to Pittsburgh is particularly meaningful not only for his football career but also as a way to give back to the city that raised him.
He took the opportunity to pay tribute to medical professionals on his most recent visit, recognizing their critical role in his recuperation.
His steadfast commitment to changing the world outside of sports is seen by his support of charity initiatives.
With an eye on the future, Hamlin is committed to seizing any chance that presents itself, on and off the field.
Hamlin’s remarks, reflecting on his trip, ring true with sincerity and thankfulness.
“I would simply say, to give everyone some more perspective, believe what you know and trust what have you right here,” he underlined.
“Along the journey of the ups and downs, I had my own, he had his own, and we were able to keep each other, hold each other accountable to what got us there in the moment.”
“I’m trying to take care of all opportunities that I can,” continued Hamlin. My goal is to take advantage of any business opportunity. I wish to ensure that I’m preparing myself for the future.
As Hamlin continues to carve out his legacy in the NFL, his dream of returning to Pittsburgh remains within reach.
Whether it materializes in the near future or in the years to come, one thing is certain – the allure of home and the prospect of finishing his career as a Pittsburgh Steeler will always hold a special place in Damar Hamlin’s heart.