Tyler Conway@@jtylerconwayFeatured Columnist IVJanuary 8, 2023
FILE - Buffalo Bills defensive back Damar Hamlin (3) leaves the field after an NFL football game against the New England Patriots, Thursday, Dec. 1, 2022, in Foxborough, Mass. Quick on-the-field emergency care from well-rehearsed medical personnel is widely credited with helping save Damar Hamlin’s life. But whether his cardiac arrest could have been prevented is much less certain. (AP Photo/Greg M. Cooper, File)AP Photo/Greg M. Cooper, File

Hamlin was placed on injured reserve this week, but the Bills worked with the NFL and NFLPA to make sure he got his full salary.

If Hamlin was placed on injured reserve, his salary would be cut in half, according to Ian Rapoport. A pay cut of $20,555.56 was the result of the difference.

Hamlin's full salary was ensured by the team, league office and union.

Hamlin was in critical condition after collapsing on the field during the game against Cincinnati. Hamlin made his first public comments on Saturday after doctors removed his breathing tube.

The love has been overwhelming but I'm thankful for every single person that prayed for me and reached out

It's not clear if Hamlin will be medically cleared to play football again. The Bills owe him a small amount of money over the next two seasons as a result of the rookies contract he signed.

Hamlin isn't considered a veteran because he has only played two seasons of football. The pension program requires players to complete three seasons.

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The Bills and the NFL are likely to do everything in their power to make Hamlin financially whole, even if it means breaking protocol.