Damar Hamlin's family: Stop criticizing Tee Higgins

Cincinnati Bengals wide receiver Tee Higgins Katie Stratman-USA TODAY Sports

Damar Hamlin's family: Stop criticizing Bengals WR Tee Higgins

By Aaron Becker | Last updated Jan 4, 2023 1:01 PM ET

Bengals WR Tee Higgins received blame for the collision that led to the severe, scary injury suffered Monday night by Bills safety Damar Hamlin. Hamlin's family wants that criticism to stop.

"I talked with the parents this morning," Jordon Rooney, Hamlin's close friend and marketing rep, told Buffalo TV station Spectrum News 1. "They're frustrated. This wasn't supporting Damar. If you think you're supporting Damar by bashing Tee, you're not supporting Damar. They don't agree with anything being said."

“If you think you’re support Damar by bashing Tee (@teehiggins5), you’re not supporting Damar” — @jordonr

Just caught up with #Bills Damar Hamlin’s close friend and marketing rep outside UCMC. He also clarified that it was a misunderstanding that Hamlin was resuscitated twice. pic.twitter.com/lrvdvVxbSp
— Rachel Hopmayer (@rachelhopmayer) January 4, 2023

"It was a freak football accident that could have happened with anyone at any time," Rooney added.

Higgins has since shown his full support to Hamlin and his family.

My prayers and thoughts go out to @HamlinIsland the Hamlin Family. I’m praying that you pull through bro. Love
— Tee Higgins⁵ (@teehiggins5) January 3, 2023

"Tee has reached out. He's went above and beyond. All signs point to him being a great human being who genuinely cares and feels bad. The family feels bad that Tee would have any guilt towards this situation," Rooney said.

Hamlin remains under sedation in the intensive care unit at a Cincinnati hospital.

His recovery effort is “moving in a positive direction,” Rooney said, but he remains in critical condition.

Love and prayers continue to be shared with Hamlin and his family as they try to pull through this difficult time.

Aaron Becker

Aaron Becker is a Pittsburgh-based sports journalist, primarily covering the NFL and college football. He previously worked for the Kansas City Chiefs (2021-22), Pittsburgh Steelers (2019-21) and University of Pittsburgh (2018-19). Becker has a B

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