SEE IT: Bills’ Damar Hamlin reacts to criticism over Jesus jacket worn at Super Bowl
Maria Leaf
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Buffalo Bills safety Damar Hamlin is responding to comments made about the jacket he wore to the Super Bowl.
Hamlin, who made headlines after surviving cardiac arrest during a game against the Cincinnati Bengals in January, was at State Farm Stadium as first responders who saved his life were honored prior to the championship game.
On Wednesday, Hamlin took to Twitter to address backlash for his wardrobe.
“After talking with my parents I understand how my coat could have offended some people. It was never my intentions to hurt or disrespect anyone, the coat is abstract art to me. It says Eternal which I am Eternally thankful to my Savior!” Hamlin tweeted. “My beliefs and Relationship with God is not tied to symbolic images. I will learn from this and continue to walk in Love as I ALWAYS have. Matthew 7:1-5.”
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Hamlin received criticism from Super Bowl viewers and more notably Adrian Peterson for his choice of wardrobe.
“You should be thanking God son! This is Blasphemy!!” Peterson posted to social media. “We all fall short but cmon man! I find this disrespectful!! #grateful #goddid.” He later edited an Instagram post after speaking with Hamlin.
“So I spoke with @d.ham3 Damar, and we were able to discuss our thoughts as men. I want to be clear, I’m the last person to judge anyone, and that was never my intention. However, I do feel as if the jacket was disrespectful and it was something that I needed to share. I do realize everyone makes mistakes and falls short at times, so again, my intention was never to judge, just to share my opinion. Damar, I have respect and love for you and I wish you nothing but the best, but I just can’t rock with that jacket. I feel like there are a lot people, young and old, looking up to you and with power and influence comes great responsibility. I apologize for offending you, I just felt offended in that moment as a man who loves and respects our Lord and Savior, Yeshua. After speaking with Damar, I have an understanding that it didn’t come from a place of ill intent!” Peterson posted.
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The controversy wrapped a roller coaster weekend for Hamlin, who also won the 2023 Alan Page Community Award from the NFL Players Association prior to the Super Bowl.
“Being recognized for the NFLPA Alan Page Community Award is humbling and a dream come true,” he said.