If you’re a fan of college football, you may have heard of Damar Hamlin. The former University of Pittsburgh safety turned heads with his impressive performances on the field, leading to his signing with the Cincinnati Bengals as an undrafted free agent in 2020. Now in his second season with the team, Hamlin is proving to be a valuable asset and a rising star in the NFL.
Hamlin was born and raised in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, where he attended Central Catholic High School. It was there that he first began to make a name for himself as a standout athlete. In his senior year, he recorded 55 tackles and two interceptions, earning him a spot on the All-State team.
After high school, Hamlin decided to stay in his hometown and attend the University of Pittsburgh. As a freshman, he saw limited action, but by his sophomore year, he had worked his way into a starting role. He continued to improve each year, and by his senior season, he was one of the top safeties in the country. In 2019, he recorded 70 tackles, three interceptions, and six pass breakups, earning him a spot on the All-ACC Second Team.
Despite his impressive college career, Hamlin went undrafted in the 2020 NFL Draft. However, he didn’t let that discourage him. He signed with the Cincinnati Bengals as a free agent and made the team’s 53-man roster. In his rookie season, he played in all 16 games, recording 27 tackles and one interception.
In 2021, Hamlin took his game to the next level. He became a full-time starter at safety and played a key role in the team’s defense. He finished the season with 82 tackles, three interceptions, and six pass breakups, earning him a spot on the All-AFC team.
What sets Hamlin apart is his versatility and intelligence. He has the ability to play both free and strong safety, and he is known for his excellent football IQ. He is a strong tackler and has a knack for making big plays. His coaches and teammates have praised him for his work ethic and leadership skills.
Looking ahead, it’s clear that Damar Hamlin has a bright future in the NFL. He has all the tools to become one of the league’s top safeties, and he will no doubt continue to improve and make an impact for the Cincinnati Bengals. Whether you’re a fan of the Bengals or just a fan of good football, keep an eye on Damar Hamlin – he’s a player to watch.
