Bills Confront Hero Who Aided in Saving Damar Hamlin’s Life
On February 2023, Danny Kellington was appointed as the Vice President of Player Health and Performance for the Carolina Panthers. Kellington, who previously served for eight seasons with the Buffalo Bills, is known for his critical role in saving the life of player Damar Hamlin.
Kellington’s Heroic Action
On January 2, 2023, during a Monday Night Football game in Cincinnati, Damar Hamlin suffered cardiac arrest on the field. Kellington was among the first responders, performing CPR and utilizing an Automated External Defibrillator (AED) to restore Hamlin’s heartbeat. His swift action was hailed as vital for not only saving Hamlin’s life but also preserving his brain function.
Acknowledgments and Honors
Hamlin publicly credited Kellington on Good Morning America, stating, “I owe Denny my life. Literally.” Buffalo Bills head coach Sean McDermott praised Kellington as a “real hero” for his courage during the emergency.
- Kellington and the Bills’ medical staff were awarded the Pat Tillman Award for Service at the 2023 ESPYs.
- Kellington received a fifth-place MVP vote from NFL journalist Suzy Kolber.
Career Timeline
Kellington is a graduate of Oklahoma State University. His professional journey includes:
- 12 years at Syracuse University
- Joined the Buffalo Bills in 2017
- Promoted to Associate Athletic Trainer in 2023
- Commencement speaker at Oklahoma State in 2023
In his new role with the Panthers, Kellington oversees multiple departments related to player health, including training, strength and conditioning, and nutrition.
Focus on Emergency Preparedness
Despite his significant impact, Kellington remains humble, emphasizing teamwork and collective effort in critical situations. He advocates for better access to AEDs, particularly in underserved youth sports communities, highlighting a crucial gap in emergency preparedness.
Impact on Damar Hamlin’s Career
Damar Hamlin successfully returned to the NFL in 2023, playing in five games before an injury placed him on the reserve list. He secured a starting role in 2024, finishing the season with notable statistics, including 89 tackles and two interceptions.
The upcoming game between the Buffalo Bills and the Carolina Panthers will not only showcase their competitive spirit but will also highlight the profound connection between Kellington and Hamlin. Their story symbolizes the epitome of courage and resilience in professional football.
