Bills Bring Back Safety Damar Hamlin on One-Year Deal

Veteran defensive back returns to provide depth in Buffalo's secondary for 2026 season.

Mar. 28, 2026 at 6:10pm

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The Buffalo Bills have re-signed veteran safety Damar Hamlin to a one-year contract, keeping the 28-year-old in Buffalo for a sixth NFL season. Hamlin, who suffered a cardiac arrest on the field in 2022 but made a remarkable recovery, will provide experienced depth behind starters Cole Bishop and C.J. Gardner-Johnson in the Bills' defensive backfield.

Why it matters

Hamlin's return gives the Bills a proven, reliable option at safety as they aim to build on their success from the 2025 season. His familiarity with the team and ability to contribute on special teams make him a valuable asset, especially with the additions of Gardner-Johnson and Geno Stone to the safety room.

The details

Hamlin, who turned 28 this week, has appeared in 53 regular-season games (27 starts) and seven playoff games (three starts) over his five-year NFL career. In 2024, he started 14 games and recorded his first three career takeaways, including a crucial strip-sack of Lamar Jackson in the Bills' AFC Divisional Round playoff win. Last season, Hamlin was limited to just five games due to a pectoral injury.

  • Hamlin's one-year deal with the Bills was announced on March 28, 2026.
  • Hamlin celebrated his 28th birthday on March 24, 2026.

The players

Damar Hamlin

A 28-year-old safety who has spent his entire five-year NFL career with the Buffalo Bills, overcoming a cardiac arrest in 2022 to return to the field and provide valuable depth in the secondary.

Cole Bishop

The Bills' starting safety, entering his third season with the team.

C.J. Gardner-Johnson

A veteran safety signed by the Bills this offseason to bolster the secondary.

Geno Stone

Another veteran safety added by the Bills this offseason to provide depth at the position.

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What’s next

The Bills will continue to evaluate their safety depth and roster as they prepare for the 2026 NFL season.

The takeaway

Hamlin's return to the Bills solidifies the team's safety depth and provides a feel-good story as the former cardiac arrest survivor continues his NFL career in Buffalo.