ESPN had to change their programming very quickly when Bills’ Damar Hamlin had to be given CPR after collapsing on the pitch and suffering a suspected cardiac arrest.
Medics rushed on to the field in Cincinnati on Monday after the young footballer collapsed in the middle of a game.
The Buffalo Bills explained the star was hit in the chest with a tackle, but appeared to get back to his feet and adjust his helmet.
He then tragically began to stumble backwards and collapsed to the ground.
CPR was carried out on the footballer for almost 10 minutes before he was transported to hospital.
The thoughts and prayers of all of Bills Mafia are supporting you, Damar. 🙏 pic.twitter.com/lDWNAOEPX4
— Buffalo Bills (@BuffaloBills) January 3, 2023
The network cut to commercial break multiple times as Joe Buck and Troy Aikman spoke seriously about the horrific scenes that were taking place on the field.
ESPN doing a really good job covering the now suspended Bills vs Bengals game. Buck, Aikman, and Salters all with the right tone.
Studio folks helping out with Booger showing the emotion most viewers are feeling. pic.twitter.com/ttt5NC0cjk
— Awful Announcing (@awfulannouncing) January 3, 2023
The Bills gave an update on the player’s condition, confirming his heartbeat had been restored.
ESPN doing a really good job covering the now suspended Bills vs Bengals game. Buck, Aikman, and Salters all with the right tone.
Studio folks helping out with Booger showing the emotion most viewers are feeling. pic.twitter.com/ttt5NC0cjk
— Awful Announcing (@awfulannouncing) January 3, 2023
They said:
“suffered a cardiac arrest following a hit in our game versus the Bengals”.
“His heartbeat was restored on the field, and he was transferred to the UC Medical Center for further testing and treatment. He is currently sedated and listed in critical condition.”
The game between the Buffalo Bills and the Cincinnati Bengals was postponed.
