Buffalo bills’ Damar Hamlin offers recruits a stern piece of advice: “Keep the main thing the main thing”

By Aman Sharma

Modified Jul 16, 2024 18:01 GMT

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Buffalo Bills safety Damar Hamlin had a compelling message for upcoming high school football recruits. The Pennsylvania native, who shined at the University of Pittsburgh before being drafted by the Bills in 2021, understands the complexities of college football recruitment.

When asked for advice for young recruits, Hamlin emphasized the importance of focus and hard work.

"Man, stick to the plan," Hamlin said. "Like, stick to the plan and prioritize the work. You know, it's a lot with NIL that, you know, might create a little bit of confusion. Get yours while you can. You know, the league ain't promised for everybody."

"Get yours while you can. But at the end of the day, keep the main thing the main thing. Like, that's what my OGs tell them. You know, keep it the main thing the main thing. That's what's going to keep you around a long time."

At Pittsburgh Central Catholic High School, Hamlin has earned a name for himself as an exceptional defensive player. During his senior year, he was named the Class AAAA best defensive player after posting 89 tackles, two interceptions, and three fumble recoveries. He even guided his squad to a 15-1 state championship season.

He was ranked as the top player in Pennsylvania by 247Sports and received scholarship offers from prestigious programs such as Penn State, Ohio State, UCLA, and Notre Dame.

Despite the widespread interest, Damar Hamlin chose to stay close to home, attending the University of Pittsburgh. He wanted to motivate his younger brother, Damir, and contribute to his local community.

At Pitt, Hamlin started 36 of his final 38 games, led the team in tackles twice, and recorded six career interceptions. He earned All-ACC honors and was named a team captain in his senior year.

Hamlin's impressive college career led to his selection by the Buffalo Bills in the sixth round of the 2021 NFL Draft. As a rookie, he played in 14 games, serving as a top backup.

Damar Hamlin focuses on comeback as Bills veterans head to training camp

The Buffalo Bills veterans are set to return to their main training camp at St. John Fisher University on July 23rd. This year's safety, Damar Hamlin, made a thrilling start when he arrived at the 2024 ESPYs in Los Angeles.

Hamlin, 26, aired his views about focusing on his role as he enters the final year of his rookie contract worth $3.64 million. When asked about his future with the Bills, Hamlin said:

"You know my mindset and process is just to get back on the field. Get the ball back rolling like I had in 2022. Get back to making plays, having fun with my teammates. You know, just enjoying the game. Once I handle that, contract talks will handle itself."

Damar Hamlin suffered a cardiac arrest during a game at Paycor Stadium on January 2, 2023. Notwithstanding his recovery, the Bills did not allow him to play more, with Hamlin joining the squad only once in last season and making two tackles.

This was a great contrast to the previous year, with his 2022 results being 15 games, 13 as a starter, 91 tackles, three quarterback hits, two passes on defense and one forced fumble.

In February, Hamlin expressed that it would be “a dream” to finish his career with the Pittsburgh Steelers, near his hometown. However, he later clarified:

"I want to be a Buffalo Bill for life. That’s the team that took a chance on me."

It remains to be seen how Hamlin performs in his contract year.