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WATCH: Rex Ryan breaks down while discussing Damar Hamlin, social media message

On3 imageby: Andrew Graham01/08/23AndrewEdGraham
On3 image
Photo by Timothy T Ludwig/Getty Images

Grief and angst rippled through the football community in the days after the horrific scene of Buffalo Bills safety Damar Hamlin collapsing on Monday night. But as Hamlin has steadily improved in health to the point he has been able to communicated with doctors, loved ones and the outside world.

On Saturday, he posted a message on social media thanking all those who prayed for, thought of, or donated on behalf of him in the last five days. And reflecting on the emotions — the fear — that was felt during the week, ESPN analyst and former NFL head coach Rex Ryan broke down in studio on Saturday.

“We needed that,” Ryan said after a pause, his words catching as he fought to keep composed. “As fans, we needed it. This guys is a legend. You’re talking about a fighter? Dang right he’s a fighter. He’s a dang legend. Thank you. I needed it, as a dad, as a coach and as a fan of this game.”

Hamlin releases first statement since on-field medical emergency, hospitalization

Less than a week after he suffered a cardiac arrest and needed CPR on the field of Monday Night Football, Buffalo Bills star Damar Hamlin has released his first statement regarding the support he received. He took to Instagram to thank fans for their support.

Hamlin collapsed early in the first quarter of Monday night’s matchup between the Bills and Cincinnati Bengals and was rushed to University of Cincinnati Medical Center. He has spent all week recovering and spoke with teammates Friday via FaceTime. As of Saturday morning, Hamlin was still listed in critical condition, the Bills said.

Hamlin received a wealth of support from NFL fans and people around the country after the incident. A GoFundMe for his toy drive received millions of dollars in donations and the NFL is taking steps to honor him this week after the events of Monday night. He saw it all once he woke up.

“When you put real love out into the world it comes back to you 3x’s as much,” Hamlin wrote, along with three heart-hands emojis. “The Love has been overwhelming, but I’m thankful for every single person that prayed for me and reached out. We brung the world back together behind this. If you know me you know this only gone make me stronger. On a long road keep praying for me!”