Damar Hamlin of Buffalo Bills in critical condition after collapse on field

Damar Hamlin, Buffalo’s defensive back, was in critical condition on Tuesday after he suffered from cardiac arrest on the field according to the Bills after making a tackle.

Hamlin collapsed on the field right after he tackled Bengals receiver Tee Higgins in a play that didn’t appear to be particularly violent. He was administered CPR right on the field for nearly 20 minutes. Players kneeled, crowded around him, shielding him from the cameras and from the public gaze. Some players were in tears.

According to The Buffalo Bills, medics restored Hamlin's heartbeat on the field before he was transported to the University of Cincinnati Medical Center, where he is in intensive care.

“Damar Hamlin 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,” said the Bills m in a statement. “He is currently sedated and listed in critical condition.”

On Tuesday, Jordon Rooney, a friend to Hamlin and a family, told ABC’s “Good Morning America” that Hamlin’s family members are hopeful and need privacy because they are going through a lot. He refused to give details about Hamlin’s condition, but did say that he was sedated.

“All I can say is he’s fighting; he’s a fighter,” said Rooney.