Damar Hamlin gets giant back tattoo in tribute of his on-field cardiac arrest scare

Jackie Longo

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Damar Hamlin gets giant back tattoo in tribute of his on-field cardiac arrest scare image

Damar Hamlin never wants to forget the life-changing moment when he went into cardiac arrest during an NFL football game. 

The near-death experience happened when the Buffalo Bills safety was playing a game against the Cincinnati Bengals in January 2023. The 27-year-old received immediate on-field CPR by medical personnel, which saved his life, and his recovery has since been remarkable. 

In honor of his terrifying collapse, the University of Pittsburgh alum has now covered his back in a giant tattoo that includes several tributes to his near-death moment.

Damar Hamlin's new ink includes powerful symbols

On Wednesday, August 13, celebrity tattoo artist Ganga shared a video on Instagram which showed multiple artists tattooing the Bills star's back at the same time. 

"Thanks for your trust," Ganga captioned the post. 

The most notable part of Hamlin's massive tat is the words "Did We Win," which was one of the first questions Hamlin asked his medical team when he regained consciousness. 

He also has the words "Pray for Damar," a picture of the Bengals' Paycor Stadium and "Monday Night Football" now etched onto his back. 

MORE: Bills safety Damar Hamlin's free agent decision is looming extra large

Damar Hamlin returns to Bills as a leader after health scare 

Hamlin has remained an inspirational story ever since he returned from his one field nightmare. He signed a one-year, $2 million contract to return to Buffalo and will serve as a veteran leader in the defensive backfield. 

Last season, he started all 14 games he played in and had 80 tackles and two interceptions. 

He's come a long way after being picked up at the 212th overall pick in the sixth round of the 2021 NFL draft. 

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Jackie Longo

Jackie is a freelance writer and editor with The Sporting News. She has covered sports, entertainment and lifestyle for over a decade. She has written for a number of outlets including Business Insider, The Sun, Travel+Leisure and Heavy. She has a Bachelor's Degree in Journalism from West Virginia University and resides in Charlotte, NC.